Freddy R. Troya

8.9

A hidden gem straight out of Bel-Air, a sophisticated Sauv Blanc vinified to age. Floral and tropical fruit notes on the nose, on the palate it welcomes you with some hint of dried peach and moderate citrus. It has some texture and a bit weight, yet it remains crisp on the mid range of the palate and has some distant but palatable candied white fruits. Drink not or cellar it for a later stage as this can easily age. — a month ago

David White

9.0

Very good Pinot true to style
Good bright berry colour, nice nose and palate of berries and good balance of acidity length and aftertaste
Not as good as Reserve offering but excellent value for money
Really enjoying SAF wines during COVID-19 — 5 years ago

J Freeman

9.0

Quite almond forward and sweet. Good for dessert or mimosas. — 5 years ago

Bob McDonald

9.1

See notes for 2018. I think I preferred the 2018 for its freshness to this 2016 which was not as lively but just as delicious. — 4 years ago

AJ Gubser

8.9

Nose of red currant, plum, meat, eucalyptus, and smoke. Much the same on the palate. Quite a lot of blackberry and sour plum acidity, especially for this varietal. Pretty soft tannin and a bit of alcohol heat on the finish. I'm digging these ripe but elegant "New Australia" wines. — 4 years ago

Lisa bastedo

9.0

Nice flavor with a bit of tannins for the finish. A good well balanced wine. — 5 years ago

Steven Beishuizen

9.1

Cab Shiraz is not a blend I seek out generally, but this wine has become a staple in our area thanks to its annual presence at the Vancouver International Wine Festival. It is, in fact, a very nice blend of red and black fruit with a high red plum note coming through most clearly for me. The shiraz offers smoothing here, I think, rather than any distinct spiciness. I guess in the way that merlot adds a grounding to a blend, but without the earthiness. This music is all up in the trees. There's even a light tree bark note that completes the analogy. Very nice! — 5 years ago

Daniel Ciolek

9.2

Another delightful year of their Meritage style blend. This year it’s made of Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petite Verdot, and Cabernet Sauvignon. Lovely nose with complex fruit and spice flavors, mouth watering acidity, and smoothness throughout with just enough tannins for a pop and a pleasant lingering finish. — 4 years ago

Bob McDonald

9.5

As per previous notes. Dense crimson in colour. Cedar, blackberry and geranium. To borrow HH’s phrase “effortless style”. Demonstrates why Coonawarra’s red dirt is marvellous for Cabernet. 96% Cabernet 4% Petit Verdot. The Tally is the top Cuvée from Balnaves. Rich, medium to full bodied. — 4 years ago

Jeremy Pollard

9.4

From the days back when they used a simple bottle with a shallow punt. And what a classically crafted Coonawarra cab this is. At 22 years of age the opening aromas showed no sign of mustiness or forgotten old books. It carries a spirit of youthfulness within its soft and supple exterior. Drinking so beautifully now! Soft mint, eucalyptus, menthol hints opening to tart black currant, dried violets, roasted fennel, cocoa and cured meat. The velvety soft palate fades in intensity towards the back, but the intrigue of each sip makes up for the lack of length. Great vintage for this wine. — 5 years ago

with Sam