Magnetic North 2018 Alheit Vineyards

Professional reviews

Robert Parker (92)

Opening to a pale gold hue, the 2018 Magnetic North rocks out of the glass with rich, round and robust aromas. The nose is filled with scents of fresh-cut citrus skin, apple, pear, dusty citrus blossom, lemon pastry cream and dusty almonds. Medium-bodied, the mouthfeel is plush and rounded, with energetic acidity that drives the expression across the mid-palate. In the mouth, a growing mineral tension, white spice and nuttiness gain in amplitude, expressing the sophisticated effects of lees aging, concluding with a long, drawn-out finish. The wine is a success and draws me back for more. Tasty stuff!

Vinous (94)

The 2018 Magnetic North comes from Citrusdal, like the Huilkrans. It has a much more backward and neutral bouquet, with fleeting pressed flower scents, and does not grab you by the lapels like the Huilkrans. The taut palate is well balanced with a fine bead of acidity, good focus and glimpses of orange pith, apricot and ginger toward the finish. I suspect this is one of Alheit’s 2018s that will demand cellaring. One for the patient.

Winespectator (92)

A rich and creamy, medium- to full-bodied white, but with a spine of vivid acidity keeping this fresh and racy, enlivening flavors of dried apricot, kumquat, persimmon and chamomile. Zips along to the lightly toasty finish, with hints of salted nut and butter.