Thorne & Daughters Best Release Mixed Case! 2025

Tin Soldier continues to evolve through subtle refinements rather than dramatic changes. The 2025 vintage is particularly expressive, showing notes of blood orange peel, ripe citrus and stone fruit alongside a gentle grip and refreshing acidity. Perfumed and full of personality, the wine balances texture with freshness in a way that has become a hallmark of the style. Distinctive and occasionally controversial, Tin Soldier remains one of the Cape’s most original white wines.

“From Swartland Semillon Gris, half the grapes spending approximately a week on skins. The nose is particularly expressive with notes of nectarine, orange peel, purple grape soda and a subtle potpourri nuance. The palate shows impressive fruit concentration and a creamy texture, balanced by well-integrated acidity. Some gentle phenolic grip lends shape and persistence to an otherwise juicy, rounded wine of considerable charm. 95/100”

Christian Eedes, Winemag.co.za

Cat’s Cradle has become one of the most loved wines in the Thorne & Daughters range. Over the past few years, John has refined the sourcing, focusing on old Swartland vineyards in the Paardeberg and west of Malmesbury to bring greater depth and character to the wine. The 2025 vintage is particularly successful, combining notes of citrus, stone fruit and wild herbs with a gentle waxy texture and a savoury edge. There is plenty of concentration, but the wine remains fresh and energetic. Generous without being heavy, Cat’s Cradle captures the balance and restraint that define the Thorne & Daughters style.

“Grapes sourced from two Paardeberg vineyards on granite soils and a third site west of Malmesbury on iron. The nose opens with a subtle yeasty note before unfolding into layers of citrus, peach, potpourri, dried hay and herbs. The palate is pure and finely etched, carried by lively acidity and a pithy finish that stops short of austerity. Intricate and detailed, yet equally immediate in its pleasure. 97/100”

Christian Eedes, Winemag.co.za

Since its introduction in 2019, Snakes & Ladders has become an essential part of the Thorne & Daughters story. Grown high in the Skurfberg, where cool Atlantic air moderates the dry conditions, the wine offers a very different interpretation of Sauvignon Blanc. Rather than overt green flavours, the focus is on texture, ripeness and complexity. The 2025 vintage shows layers of citrus, tropical fruit and herbs, supported by remarkable freshness and a savoury finish. Inspired by the great white wines of Bordeaux, it is a style that rewards both the table and the cellar.

“Grapes from Citrusdal Mountain. Exotic aromatics of lemon, grapefruit, pineapple and a hint of herbs. Super-concentrated, rich and smooth but equally carries a big acidity, the finish dry. As ever, makes a big impression. 94/100”

Christian Eedes, Winemag.co.za

This vintage of Wanderer's Heart is what the Thorne & Daughters team consider a Cape Red blend. A wine that is built around various incredible vineyards found all over the Western Cape.

Christian Eedes, Winemag:
"45% Grenache, 36% Syrah, 11% Carignan and 8% Mourvèdre, sourced from Olifantsberg in Breedekloof and Gabriëlskloof in Bot River. The nose is complex yet restrained, with notes of red and black berries, olive brine, fynbos and white pepper. The palate is focused and linear – almost austere – with pure fruit and fresh acidity, the finish long and dry. More detail and finesse than previous vintages. 94/100."