Alphabetical Wines came from a decision to break the rules.

A firm favourite with top critics such as Jancis Robinson and Matthew Jukes, this is without a doubt one of the best-value South African wines on the market too. The 2020 is more Cab Franc led, with that typical gentle herbal nose, hints of dried orange peel and pot pourri, with lots of glossy fruit - blackberries, squishy blueberries and damsons too. The palate is plush, nailing the balance between gentle earthy tones and brighter fruit. Svelte, polished and with a sumptuous mouthfeel too, with gratings of dark chocolate, merest hint of spearmint and candied peel, and very fine, refreshing acidity.

They are made by friends David Cope and Simon Wibberly, they didn’t want to make a single varietal wine or even a classic blend. Unfussed by area or origin and not owning their own estate, or boasting years of heritage, they wanted to make wines that were fun - voluptuous yet drinkable, impressive yet affordable, honest products that are naturally fermented and made with the utmost care to maintain the integrity of the fruit and the variety character. In other words, serious wine, but wine you can pour for novices as much as aficionados. And the name? When they first started, their first red had so many varieties, one of their mates commented “Wow, it’s almost the whole alphabet!!” The name has stuck, and Alphabetical Vin Ordinaire goes on!