Alvi’s Drift Unveils Rare Wines from Iconic Albertus Viljoen Range
In the quietly meticulous world of fine winemaking, there are vintages that speak not only of place, but of pause — of time taken, instincts followed, and stories carefully bottled. The Albertus Viljoen Icon Range from Alvi’s Drift is precisely that: a limited, legacy-defining collection that captures the soul of the vineyard and the philosophy of a third-generation winery willing to wait for greatness.
This month, a final allocation of three standout vintages from the Albertus Viljoen range is being discreetly released through a trusted network of fine wine partners. These are not wines made for mass shelves — they are singular expressions, reserved in number but expansive in depth, and now part of Alvi’s Drift’s history rather than its ongoing production.
2023 Albertus Viljoen Chenin Blanc
The 2023 Albertus Viljoen Chenin Blanc tells one of the most compelling stories in the cellar's portfolio. Made from a rediscovered, 40-year-old heritage vineyard that had long been abandoned, this Chenin is a triumph of patience and vision. With only 491 cases produced, it has already earned a Great Gold at the 2024 International Wine & Spirits Awards in Spain — a bold accolade for such a quietly made wine.
2022 Albertus Viljoen Chardonnay
The 2022 Albertus Viljoen Chardonnay, with only 512 cases available, is equally expressive. Aromas of vanilla, lemon zest, coconut and honey melon are followed by a palate that is both nuanced and unshakeably confident — a wine awarded 90 Points in John Platter’s 2025 South African Wine Guide.
2020 Albertus Viljoen Bismarck
Completing the trilogy is the deeply intriguing 2020 Albertus Viljoen Bismarck, a red blend composed of seven different varietals. Just 100 cases were produced of this richly layered wine, which is named for a beloved family dog and marked by notes of ripe plum, cherry, pepper and liquorice. It has earned a Double Platinum at the 2024 NWC & SA Top 100 competition, along with a spot among South Africa’s Top 100 Wines and 90 Points in the 2025 Platter’s Guide.
“These are wines that reflect a particular point in our work,” says winemaker Alvi van der Merwe. “These bottles remain as markers of what the land has given us, and how we chose to work with it.”
As no further volumes of these vintages will be produced, what remains is both precious and final. Private clients, fine wine merchants, and collectors lucky enough to secure an allocation will not just receive a bottle — they’ll receive a piece of Alvi’s Drift’s ongoing story.
For those who understand that truly great wine doesn’t shout but rather stays with you, this rare offering is more than a purchase — it’s an inheritance of craftsmanship, vineyard, and vision.