Hamilton Russell Vineyards Releases their Chardonnay 2011 - the 30th Vintage

Hamilton Russell Vineyards Releases their Chardonnay 2011 - the 30th Vintage

Last week was the released of the 30th vintage of Hamilton Russell Vineyards Chardonnay, the 2011.


With the release of the Hamilton Russell Vineyards Pinot noir 2010 expected in mid January, they will have both their 30th vintage of Pinot noir and our 30th vintage of Chardonnay in the market simultaneously – a real milestone for this iconic South African winery!

Both wines remain true expressions of the site and soils in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley.

The 2011 Chardonnay has a particularly beautiful fruit profile (pears and limes) and a generous viscous palate balancing the tight, dry, mineral core of the wine and the bright line of natural acid. The vintage was a touch warmer than 2009 and 2010, which accounts for the wines slightly more generous palate at this point in its development. The alcohol at 13.23% remains low however.

2011 is the first vintage to contain a small percentage of Chardonnay fermented and aged in 160 liter stoneware amphorae (see picture).

This initiative has been underway since 2005 when they made their first terracotta amphorae.

These turned out to be too porous so they eventually moved to stoneware. With these vessels, they achieve the same air-exchange as a barrel, but avoid the pick up of oak flavours and tannins.

They are lined with clay off their property.

The amphorae are perfect for the oldest Chardonnay vineyards, where even at extremely low yields, the grapes ripen at much lower alcohols – 12% for example.

These vineyards make wines that are all too easily overwhelmed by newer wood or lack vibrant freshness in older wood.

The lower alcohol wines from the amphorae are wines of great beauty, finesse and freshness, with remarkable density given the alcohol levels.

Their next 9 amphorae arrive in time for the 2012 vintage and with an order of a further 9 for 2013, Hamilton Russell Vineyards will have between 5% and 10% of their Chardonnay amphora fermented and aged.

SBIG South African Sauvignon Blanc Interest Group

SBIG South African Sauvignon Blanc Interest Group


4 November 2011

FNB Sauvignon Blanc Top 10 Competition 2011 Tasting Report
By Christian Eedes

Was 2011 the right vintage at the right time for local Sauvignon Blanc? Hot and dry almost everywhere, the resulting wines tend to be richer and riper than usual and therefore set to appeal to a consumer base that shows the first signs of tiring of wines made to be ultra-green and ultra-acidic.

Past a point, however, the debate that has raged recently between proponents of “grassy” Sauvignon Blanc and those of a more “fruity” style is not that helpful. What ultimately matters are the issues fundamental to all wine assessment: flavour intensity, balance, length but also the relative success of the winemaker to elevate a mere agricultural product to something worthy of contemplation.

The results of the fifth annual Sauvignon Blanc Top 10 held under the auspices of the Sauvignon Blanc Interest Group and sponsored by FNB reveal some interesting trends. Nine of the winning wines were from the generally under-rated 2011 vintage and only one from 2010, which does seem to play into the hands of those that insist Sauvignon drinks best when young. Even those of us who are fond of Sauvignon when a little older have to admit that most simply take on a little more richness rather than gaining huge complexity...

Of the 10, five wines were area-specific and five were multi-regional blends. Sauvignon is arguably one of the ultimate terroir wines in the sense that there is theoretically little in the winemaking process which might obscure the impact of site. Any consideration of terroir becomes difficult, if not meaningless, as soon as fruit from more than one place of origin is involved but on the other hand, blending undoubtedly facilitates greater complexity, and in a vintage like 2011, having access to vineyards across multiple regions acts as a buffer against difficult weather conditions.

In the four previous years of the Top 10, Darling, Durbanville and Elim have always featured prominently and while a lot of the wines that performed well in this year‟s competition are again made from grapes sourced from these three maritime areas, it is interesting to note how fruit from Stellenbosch plays a role in many of the wines. When very “green” Sauvignon was at the height of fashion, this relatively warmer district was unlikely to be associated with the leading wines but now that there is demand for greater ripeness, it pops up again.

Finally, consumers should be delighted (and producers frustrated) that despite the ever growing reputation of local Sauvignon, the category seems unable to ratchet up its premium in any meaningful way. The average price per bottle of the Top 10 in 2007 was R70 and in 2011, it‟s R77.

For any enquiries relating to the FNB Sauvignon Blanc Top 10 Competition, please contact the Sauvignon Blanc Interest Group (SBIG):
Pieter de Waal
Secretary: SBIG
+27 (0)83 357 3864
E-mail: sbig@dw.co.za

The FNB Sauvignon Blanc Top 10 for 2011:


Boschendal Reserve Collection 2011 Not yet released. Cellar price for 2010: R90
40% Durbanville, 30% Helshoogte, Stellenbosch, 30% Firgrove, Somerset West. Blossom on the nose before a complex palate showing a range of flavours from citrus through yellow apple to green melon. Rich and full with tangy acidity. Drink now – 2014.
Wine of Origin: Western Cape
Alcohol: 13.71%
Residual Sugar: 3.2 g/l
Total Acidity: 6.6 g/l
pH: 3.40

Clos Malverne 2011 Cellar price: R76
100%
Devon Valley, Stellenbosch. Flavours of apple, spice and honey. A rich and round mouth-feel counterbalanced by zesty acidity. Very good fruit concentration before a saline finish. Drink now – 2013.
Wine of Origin: Stellenbosch
Alcohol: 13.74%
Residual Sugar: 1.6 g/l
Total Acidity: 6.5 g/l
pH: 3.45

David Nieuwoudt Ghost Corner 2011 Cellar price: R165
100%
Elim. Lime as well as herbaceous notes on both the nose and palate. Pure fruit, good line of acidity, saline finish. Towards the greener end of the flavour spectrum but focused and balanced. Drink now – 2014.
Wine of Origin: Elim
Alcohol: 13.24%
Residual Sugar: 1.5 g/l
Total Acidity: 7.0 g/l
pH: 3.49

Delaire Coastal Cuvée 2011 Cellar price: R95

50% Stellenbosch, 32% Durbanville, 14% Darling, 4% Franschhoek Semillon. A complete wine with a range of flavour from paprika through lime to granadilla. Rich but balanced. Great fruit purity matched by bright acidity. Long, dry finish. Drink now – 2016.
Wine of Origin: Coastal Region
Alcohol: 13.36%
Residual Sugar: 1.7 g/l
Total Acidity: 7.3 g/l
pH: 3.30

Fleur du Cap Unfiltered Limited Release 2011 Cellar price: R95

66.6% Darling, 33.3% Cape Agulhas. Classic South African Sauvignon Blanc. Complex nose displays lime, an attractive herbal note, granadilla and gunpowder. Great fruit definition and fresh acidity on the palate. Very persistent on finish. Drink now – 2016.
Wine of Origin: Western Cape
Alcohol: 13.71%
Residual Sugar: 1.2 g/l
Total Acidity: 6.8 g/l
pH: 3.30

Franschhoek Cellar Statue de Femme 2011 Cellar price: R40

80% Franschhoek, 14% Stellenbosch, 6% Franschhoek Semillon. Quiet nose but the palate shows good fruit weight and soft but sufficient acidity. Range of flavour including green and yellow apple as well as granadilla. Drink now – 2012.
Wine of Origin: Western Cape
Alcohol: 13.39%
Residual Sugar: 3.6 g/l
Total Acidity: 6.6 g/l
pH: 3.38


Lutzville Cool Climate 2010 Cellar price: R26.99

100% Lutzville. Some pleasing development on the nose. The palate is rich and full balanced by tangy acidity. Great flavour intensity: green bean, lime, paprika. Drink now.
Wine of Origin: Lutzville Valley
Alcohol: 12.39%
Residual Sugar: 7.0 g/l
Total Acidity: 8.1 g/l
pH: 3.34

Overhex Soulo 2011 Cellar price: R45

66.6% Darling/Swartland, 33.3% Elgin. This elegant wine is generally green tinged – lime and some herbaceous aromas and flavours. Juicy and fresh before a long, dry finish. Drink now – 2012.
Wine of Origin: Western Cape
Alcohol: 12.43%
Residual Sugar: 2.7 g/l
Total Acidity: 5.4 g/l
pH: 3.48

Wade Bales Winemaker Selection Thys Louw 2011 Wade Bales Wine Society price: R49

100% Durbanville. Rich and full, this wine shows citrus, yellow apple and spice on the nose and palate. Good fruit concentration, tangy acidity. Has an appealing sweet „n sour character. Drink now – 2013.
Wine of Origin: Durbanville
Alcohol: 13.59%
Residual Sugar: 1.5 g/l
Total Acidity: 6.4 g/l
pH: 3.47

Woolworths [WHAT]? 2011 by Bergsig Estate Woolworths price: R39.95

100% Breedekloof. Somewhat shy on the nose but the palate shows intense lime flavour and bright acidity while the palate is long and very dry. Made in a lean, racy style. Drink now – 2012.
Wine of Origin: Breedekloof
Alcohol: 13.06%
Residual Sugar: 2.2 g/l
Total Acidity: 5.9 g/l
pH: 3.63

GENERAL INFORMATION AND SUMMARY OF RESULTS
Panel: Christian Eedes (Chairperson and Independent Wine Writer)
Angela Lloyd (Independent Wine Writer)
James Pietersen (Beverages Manager)
Louis Nel (Winemaker)
Pieter de Waal (Secretary: SBIG)
Dates of tasting: 27 September to 29 September 2011 (3 days)
Venue: The Wine Cellar, Observatory
Audited by: Nico Viljoen, PKF Chartered Accountants
Tasting & coordination: Karlien van Straaten
Total number of wines entered: 169
Wines achieving 4 stars and above: 27 (16% of entries)

4 STAR AND ABOVE WINES IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER


Backsberg John Martin Reserve Sauvignon Blanc 2010
Bergsig [WHAT]? Woolworths Sauvignon Blanc 2011
Bonnievale Cellar Sauvignon Blanc 2011
Boschendal Reserve Collection Sauvignon Blanc 2011
Clos Malverne Sauvignon Blanc 2011
De Grendel Koetshuis Sauvignon Blanc 2011
Delaire Coastal Cuvée 2011
Delaire Coastal Cuvée 2010
Diemersdal Sauvignon Blanc 2011
Fleur du Cap Unfiltered Sauvignon Blanc Limited Release 2011
Franschhoek Cellar Sauvignon Blanc 2011
David Nieuwoudt Ghost Corner Sauvignon Blanc 2011
Kleine Zalze Family Reserve Sauvignon Blanc 2010
KWV Cathedral Cellar Sauvignon Blanc 2011
La Motte Sauvignon Blanc 2011
Lomond Sugarbush Sauvignon Blanc 2010
Lutzville Cool Climate Sauvignon Blanc 2010
Neethlingshof Sauvignon Blanc 2011
Phizante Kraal Sauvignon Blanc 2011
Quoin Rock The Nicobar 2009
Rietvallei Classic Sauvignon Blanc 2011
Soulo Sauvignon Blanc 2011
Wade Bales Thys Louw Sauvignon Blanc 2011
Tokara Reserve Collection Elgin Sauvignon Blanc 2010
Tokara Zondernaam Sauvignon Blanc 2010
Uitkyk Sauvignon Blanc 2011
Vergelegen Sauvignon Blanc Reserve 2011

TWO OCEANS ON A ROLL IN THE US

TWO OCEANS ON A ROLL IN THE US


Popular South African wine brand Two Oceans is not only currently trending ahead of its competitors in the US imported wine sector, but it has just been given another boost thanks to a listing by the leading Four Seasons hospitality group. Two Oceans Chardonnay, sold to patrons by the glass, and on the menu for all catered events, will be offered across 25 establishments in the US and Caribbean for the next 24 months.

Already the top-selling South African wine range in Canada and a major player in Sweden and other Scandinavian countries, in the US, AC Nielsen data shows the brand recording year-on-year sales volume growth of 29% for the 13 weeks to September 17, 2011, compared with the 1,4% decline of the imported dry table wine sector as a whole for the same period.

Globally, the brand continues to hold its own, despite the recession, says international marketing manager Jackie Olivier.

“Two Oceans has managed to defy the downturn in many major markets thanks to its compelling value offering.

It is also backed by strong eco-credentials. All the grapes sourced for the range are accredited by South Africa’s Integrated Production of Wine (IPW) for sustainable wine-growing and winemaking practices. T

he wine will soon be sold exclusively in light-weight, fully recyclable 350-gram bottles in line with our commitment to lightening our impact on the planet. By reducing bottle weight from the original 460 grams, we shall be saving the equivalent of 120 kgs of carbon equivalent emissions for every 1 000 bottles produced. These light-weight bottles will also feature biodegradable labels, inks and adhesives and they will be packed in biodegradable cartons.”

All Two Oceans wines from the 2010 vintage carry the Sustainable Wine South Africa (SWSA) seal, backed by a sophisticated tracking system in which bottle contents can be traced back to source at every stage of the supply chain to confirm the integrity of their production.

Olivier said the Two Oceans relationship with Four Seasons was particularly apposite, given the hospitality group’s involvement with the environment.

“In South Africa, we support the WWF Southern African Sustainable Seafood Initiative (WWF SASSI) that helps to improve the conservation status of overexploited seafood in local oceans, while Four Seasons supports the sea turtle conservancy in the area near Nevis, their breeding ground in the Eastern Caribbean. Our switch to light-weight bottles is reducing our carbon emissions, while Four Seasons has embarked on a campaign to plant 10 million trees in 34 countries to offset its carbon emissions.”

The internationally marketed wine brand is not only well supported in Canada and much of Scandinavia but is coasting on a wave of popularity in China, Hong Kong, Malaysia and New Zealand.

In India, for example, it is listed by some of the country’s highest profile hotels, restaurants and clubs, as well as a range of prominent retail chains and is available in most of the major and second-tier cities across the country.

In the US, the brand is represented by Aveníu Brands. Amongst Two Oceans retail stockists are Publix, Beverages & More, Walgreens, Whole Foods and Costco, while other hospitality chains offering the brand include Marriott, Sheraton, Holiday Inn, Ramada and Radisson.

DATE NOVEMBER 8, 2011
ISSUED BY DKC (DE KOCK COMMUNICATIONS)
FOR TWO OCEANS WINES
QUERIES JACKIE OLIVIER, GLOBAL TWO OCEANS MARKETING MANAGER, + 27 21 809 7000
TESSA DE KOCK/MARLISE POTGIETER, DKC + 27 21 422 2690

LIMITED RELEASE OF SAWi ‘AMBASSADORS’ WINE RANGE

LIMITED RELEASE OF SAWi ‘AMBASSADORS’ WINE RANGE



SAWi announced the release of our Ambassadors wine collection and gift boxes today, 13 December 2011. These 24 wines represent the best of South African Wines, with 14 wines having scored a perfect 100 points on the SAWi Index and the rest made up from a selection from top SAWi 96+ Club laureates.

SAWi considers the combined preferences of a diverse group of wine judges from various wine competitions over several vintage years and present it in wine maturation categories with a point's format score out of a 100, with different weights ascribed to wine competitions and where recognition is also given to the consistency of results and accolades bestowed on a wine.

Arranged in four case selections of 6 each, wine lovers can now order these cases at R 1600.00 each (delivery included for SA addresses) via Cybercellar online (www.cybercellar.com).

Selection 1

Kanonkop – Paul Sauer Cabernet Sauvignon, Saronsberg – Full Circle Mourvedre Viognier, Bouchard Finlayson – Galphin Peak Pinot Noir, Cederberg – Sauvignon Blanc, Rijks Private Cellar – Private Cellar Pinotage, De Krans – Cape Tawny Port.

Selection 2

Hamilton Russel Vineyards – Chardonnay, Saronsberg – Shiraz, Stellenzicht – Cabernet Sauvignon, Neetlingshof – Maria Riesling Noble Late Harvest, Bouchard Finlayson – Hannibal, Mulderbosch – Chardonnay Barrel Fermented.

Selection 3

Oak Valley – Elgin Pinot Noir, La Motte – Shiraz Viognier, KWV – Mentor Shiraz, Kleine Zalze – Chenin Blanc Barrel Fermented, Klein Constantia – Vin de Constance Sweet Wine, Kanonkop - Pinotage.

Selection 4

Hamilton Russel Vineyards – Pinot Noir, Eagles’ Nest – Shiraz, Groot Constantia – Gouverneurs Reserve Cabernet Blend, Paul Cluver – Chardonnay, Lomond – Pincushion Sauvignon Blanc, Paul Cluver – Riesling Noble Late Harvest.

Wine presented under the Ambassadors label is particularly distinguished, speaking of finesse and elegance, unique terroir and integrity. They are undoubtedly part of the very best of South Africa's wines, being imbued with a unique sense of `place`, as comparisons of cultivars would show.

Each case includes its respective SAWi Ambassador Club Wine Cards (with more about the terroir aspects and tasting notes of each wine), together with a collector’s poster of the 24 wines.

There is also a SAWi Ambassador's Club iPad Application available from the Apple Online Store. Please visit www.sawineindex.com for more information.



Issued by : Yolandi de Wet PR - Cell phone 0027 (0)82 772 7519 - email: Yolandi De Wet [yolandidewetpr@gmail.com]

On behalf of Izak Smit, Project Director South African Wine Index - email: ismit@mweb.co.za office 0027 (0)21 882 9440

Viljoensdrift Fine Wines & River Cruises

Viljoensdrift Fine Wines & River Cruises


Summertime and the living is easy...we invite you to raise your glass in a toast to summer and the good life.

Whether you are celebrating milestones, birthdays, happy endings or new beginnings, Villion is the ideal companion. A blanc de blancs MCC hand-crafted entirely out of Chardonnay, Villion is elegant with hints of honeysuckle and buttered toast. Popping the cork will provoke tingles of pleasure.




Wines from our record 2011 harvest — the biggest in the history of Viljoensdrift — have been released. Savour the zesty Sauvignon Blanc with asparagus wrapped in Norwegian salmon or pair West Coast mussel paella with the crisp yet creamy Chardonnay.

Looking for the quintessential daytime wine? An off-dry, coral-hued Rosé has joined the flagship River Grandeur line-up. Its crisp texture and voluptuous red berry deliciousness is wonderful for outdoors, perfect for the summer.

Pinotage fans take note: a limited quantity of the 2009 River Grandeur Pinotage Special Selection – Veritas double gold winner, Michelangelo gold medalist and rated one of South Africa's top Pinotage wines — has been released. Complete your Pinotage collection with the 2010 River Grandeur Pinotage and 2010 River Grandeur Cape Blend, an earthy melange of Pinotage and Shiraz.

The ever-popular, pocket-friendly Driftwood Dry White and Dry Red blends offer carefree fun-in-the-sun quaffing at the unbeatable price of R22-50 and R24-50 respectively.

Wines are available at our Riverside Tasting Area or online www.viljoensdrift.co.za/order


Savour the Taste of Summer

On a balmy summer day, few things in life rival the bonhomie of drifting down the river sharing an alfresco meal with friends and family. Pick a picnic from our deli – ciabatta straight from the oven, a choice of pâtes, cold cuts, cheeses and condiments — and step onto our river boat Uncle Ben.
Soak up the sun, trail your feet in the cool water of the Breede River and sip a glass or two of the best from our vineyards as the river route meanders past indigenous Breede River Yellow Wood and Wild Olive trees teeming with a variety of bird species. Pure bliss.



The 60 minute river cruise comes at a mere R40 for adults, including wine tasting prior to departure, and R15 for children between 3 and 16 years. The boat, which can accommodate 40 people, departs daily at 12:00 and thereafter every hour on the hour (depending on bookings). Advance bookings and arrival 30 minutes prior to departure are essential.

Visit www.viljoensdrift.co.za, email rivercruises@viljoensdrift.co.za or tel 023 615 1017 for further
information and bookings


A Reputation for Excellence

Fred and Manie's unrelenting commitment to working in harmony with nature coupled with a formidable team effort in the cellar and vineyard continue to pay dividends.
Recent accomplishments include 3 stars for Villion at the annual Amorim Cork Cap Classique Challenge; a pair of gold medals for the 2008 River Grandeur Shiraz and the 2009 River Grandeur Cape Blend at the Michelangelo International Wine Awards; Veritas silver for our 2009 River Grandeur Cabernet Sauvignon; a duo of trophies for the 2011 Pinotage/Cabernet Sauvignon blend at the SA and Roberston Young Wine Shows.




Venturing Further Afield

Argentina and Chile

In August Fred joined a small group of winemakers on a visit to South America hosted by Toneleria Nacional cooperage. After touch-down in Buenos Aires, the group travelled to Mendoza, the heart of the wine industry in Argentina. The fruit of the local vines were sampled at seven wineries, located at the foothills of the mighty Andes, the world's longest north-south mountain range . Overall the quality of the wines was impressive — full-bodied, full of flavour, with soft tannins and deep red colours amongst the reds.



And then it was off to Chile. Highlights included a visit to Toneleria Nacional cooperage, wine tastings at wineries tucked between the Andes and the Pacific Ocean and the scenic splendour of the south with its snow-capped volcanoes, lush landscapes, forests and lakes.

The Netherlands

Wereldse Wijndagen (Global Wine Days) in The Netherlands was the next destination on Fred's wine travels. The three-day trade event organized by leading Dutch wine importers/distributors brought together 100 old and new world wine producers from 12 countries across the globe under one roof. Some 600 wines were showcased and lured 1 100 visitors who were wooed by the offering of fine wines paired with delectable food prepared by a trio of Michelin star chefs from The Netherlands and Italy.



Celebrate Summer and Win

Escape...breathe the fresh country air. Win a blissful weekend for two at Bougain Villa, our self-catering cottage in Montagu, a Breede River cruise and a bottle of Viljoensdrift wine in the Celebrate Summer competition. Join the Viljoensdrift Facebook page and stand a chance to win. Enter today!



Happy Holidays

May this Festive Season bring you pleasant memories and much happiness.
Celebrate each day. Cheers!

SAWi, A PLAN TO CHANGE THE GLOBAL PERCEPTION ON SOUTH AFRICA’S TOP WINES

SAWi, A PLAN TO CHANGE THE GLOBAL PERCEPTION ON SOUTH AFRICA’S TOP WINES


The South African Wine Index (SAWi) has recently brought together cutting edge wine producers at the Twelve Apostles Hotel in Camps Bay, to celebrate the extraordinary achievements attained by a category of wines as identified by the latest Index results. Guy Lundy, the CEO of ‘Accelerate Cape Town’, who acted as coordinator for the event, indicated how these superior wines can fit in with the superior picture of Cape Town, a place being considered amongst the world’s superstars (speech attached). It’s a fact that the Cape wine's image abroad has not met its full potential.


At the event media and producers shared ideas how to address the need of the top 4% of SA wineries in particular, in raising the global perception about these wines. All agreed that a specific plan, pursuing a common goal is now required. Wine commentators around the globe attest to the fact that the time for South African wines has come and that we should be leading with our best superstars to create the belief that we provide value by providing tremendous quality.


Michael Fridjhon, well known wine writer, has recently made this remark: “The past decade has seen extraordinary changes at the top end of the South African wine industry. This is Cape Wine’s brave new world where potential and what was possible, have come together.


Media and wine judges were called on to do away with negative reporting about wine but, to rather align themselves in a new manner behind South African icon wines. Support, rather than undermining these wines is now required. Media was also asked to more often write about the extraordinary elements of South African wine. ‘Wine is not about people but, about ‘place.’


Outside current efforts of trying to build a South African Wine awareness and "SA brand" it was felt that now is the time to place more emphasis on the uniqueness of regional aspects of South African wines and to bring those to the attention of opinion leaders and top end consumers in key markets worldwide.


The group will again gather in future to exchange further ideas and to provide credence to the plan.

More about these top 24 wines, known as the ‘Ambassadors Club’ range of wines can be accessed on the SAWi website www.sawineindex.com. Limited number uniquely compiled sets of these wines will be made available through Cybercellar.



While the large number of wine competitions and differences in competition results brings about disillusionment amongst consumers, the unique composite SA Wine Index Rating will again restore the confidence of consumers, starting to take note again.

It is hoped that the success of this initiative will contribute to the greater general acceptance of South African wine throughout the world.



Issued by : Yolandi de Wet PR - Cell phone 0027 (0)82 772 7519 - email: Yolandi De Wet [yolandidewetpr@gmail.com]

On behalf of Izak Smit, Project Director South African Wine Index - email: ismit@mweb.co.za office 0027 (0)21 882 9440

Lomond richly rewarded at International competitions

Lomond richly rewarded at International competitions


Lomond’s outstanding reputation for top-quality wines that are made to last has been re-affirmed at the 2011 International Wine Challenge (IWC) in London, and by Germany’s ENO WorldWine.



The 2006 vintages of Lomond Sugarbush Sauvignon Blanc and Lomond Pincushion Sauvignon Blanc from the eco-friendly Gansbaai winery, made by winemaker Kobus Gerber, were awarded 93 and 91 points respectively in the IWC Library Collection category.

This category is a natural extension of the IWC, one of the most influential blind tastings in the world, with the aim of demonstrating the merits of premium wines and their cellaring potential.

The 2011 tasting reviewed 2001 and 2006 vintages.



Both single-vineyard wines, the judges praised the 2006 Sugarbush for its complexity, slightly evolved nose, well-integrated flavours of asparagus, herbs and oak as well as its long-lasting aftertaste.
The 2006 Pincushion was lauded for its elegance and lightness, freshness, citrus fruit flavours and tangy finish.



Lomond also excelled in terms of the German ENO WorldWine’s ratings of South African wines for 2011.
The winery’s 2010 Pincushion Sauvignon Blanc achieved five stars, indicative of a top wine of international format.



Situated 34˚ 34’ south, Lomond is one of very few wine operations with a Cape Agulhas District appellation.
Located just 8 kilometres from the sea as the crow flies, its vines are cooled by south-west and south-east winds that blow during the summer months.



Lomond’s manager Wayne Gabb says the proximity to the sea helps to create an environment that is cooler on average than other wine regions with slow ripening.

The farm also has the advantage of naturally occurring indigenous vegetation and low hills to act as a filter for the salt-laden sea air. With its varying terrain and low-vigour soil types and the opportunity to plant vines with different aspects and elevations, it offers a broad spectrum of building blocks to make single-vineyard wines and single-cultivar as well as multi-cultivar blends, he adds.



Lomond names many of its wines after the indigenous flora growing on the farm.

It is one of the earliest members of the Biodiversity and Wine Initiative (BWI), acknowledged for protecting the environment and conserving the indigenous habitat and also belongs to the Walker Bay Fynbos Conservancy.



DATE DECEMBER 12, 2011

ISSUED BY DKC (DE KOCK COMMUNICATION)

FOR CAPE LEGENDS

QUERIES WAYNE GABB, LOMOND 028 388 0095 or 082 552 4124
LIZE-MARIE GRADWELL, CAPE LEGENDS MARKETING (021) 809 7000 or 082 4528208
TANYA JORDAAN, LOMOND BRAND MANAGER 021 809 7000 or 083 3217643
MARLISE POTGIETER/SONJA BEZUIDENHOUT, DKC 021 422 2690

NEETHLINGSHOF NOW A CONSERVATION CHAMPION

NEETHLINGSHOF NOW A CONSERVATION CHAMPION

The award-winning Stellenbosch estate Neethlingshof is the 23rd winery to become a Biodiversity & Wine Initiative (BWI) Champion. The estate has been implementing an extensive biodiversity and conservation programme for several years now. Developed by master viticulturist Prof Eben Archer who was commissioned to re-plan and replant all the vineyards on the farm, the programme has now largely fallen to winemaker De Wet Viljoen to oversee and execute.



To achieve a better balance between planted areas and natural veld, 116 ha or 42% of the farm has been set aside for conservation. In reconfiguring the lay-out of the farm Prof Archer allowed for islands of indigenous vegetation between the new vineyard blocks connected by corridors.



What no one foresaw was that these interconnected “islands” would create an explosion in the number of mice foraging on the root systems of the vines. To resolve the situation, efforts were introduced to attract natural predators in the form of owls. Vantage posts were erected in all the vineyards on which owls could perch while hunting at night. Given the abundance of food, owls soon established themselves in numbers in densely wooded areas on the farm.



As a result of the environmentally-friendly farming practices, the number of beneficial insects also started to multiply and so did the amount of guinea fowl, for which they are a natural food source, thereby controlling the quantity of insects. The presence of the guinea fowl in turn attracted caracal from the hills of the adjoining conservancy. First spotted in 2008, they have moved into undisturbed wooded areas on the farm where they found safe breeding areas.



A plan to clear invasive alien trees was introduced in 2003 already as part of the programme introduced by the Bottelary Hills Renosterveld Concervancy (BHRC). To date 15 hectares have been returned to natural veld.



DATE DECEMBER 6, 2011

ISSUED BY DKC (DE KOCK COMMUNICATIONS)

FOR CAPE LEGENDS

QUERIES DE WET VILJOEN, NEETHLINGSHOF WINEMAKER, 021 883 8988 OR 082 929 4469
LIZE-MARIE GRADWELL, CAPE LEGENDS MARKETING MANAGER, 021 809 8243 OR 082 452 8208
MARLISE POTGIETER/SONJA BEZUIDENHOUT, DKC 021 422 2690 OR 072 562 5307

NEETHLINGSHOF TEAMS UP WITH POPULAR MASTERCHEF AUSTRALIA CONTESTANT

NEETHLINGSHOF TEAMS UP WITH POPULAR MASTERCHEF AUSTRALIA CONTESTANT



The award-winning Stellenbosch wine estate Neethlingshof recently showed the versatility of its wines by matching some with delicious food dishes created by well-liked MasterChef Australia contestant Alvin Quah.


The fun and insightful workshop took place at the state-of-the-art Pick ‘n Pay Good Food Studio in Johannesburg and were attended by both food lovers and wine enthusiasts.


Charismatic winemaker De Wet Viljoen narrated humorous and informative stories about the estate and its wines, while Alvin shared his own history, experience of contending with the best in MasterChef Australia and his love for cooking.



Guests were treated to a variety of wines and scrumptious tasting portions of each dish, giving them the opportunity to discover wine and food pairing and how satisfying it can be.

Neethlingshof Gewürztraminer 2011 was paired with to-die-for Asian-style king fish tartare while melt-in-the-mouth rib eye steak with Chimichurri sauce was complemented by Neethlingshof Malbec 2010.



Scallops with lime and lemongrass salt was served with Neethlingshof Unwooded Chardonnay 2011 and Greek-style lamb with Neethlingshof Short Story Collection The Owl Post Pinotage 2009.

Chicken arrabiata harmonised perfectly with Neethlingshof Short Story Collection The Caracal 2007, a Cabernet Sauvignon-dominated blend. The estate’s gorgeous noble late harvest nectar, Neethlinghof Short Story Collection The Maria 2010 and steamed fig and coconut dessert provided an elegantly graceful and sweet ending to a perfect evening.



DATE DECEMBER 2, 2011

ISSUED BY DKC (DE KOCK COMMUNICATIONS)

FOR CAPE LEGENDS

QUERIES DE WET VILJOEN, NEETHLINGSHOF WINEMAKER, 021 883 8988 OR 082 929 4469
GWEN JOB, NEETHLINGSHOF BRAND MANAGER, 021 809 8481 OR 079 897 7444

MARLISE POTGIETER/SONJA BEZUIDENHOUT, DKC 021 422 2690 OR 072 562 5307

MAKE MINE BRANDY WITH DINNER

MAKE MINE BRANDY WITH DINNER



Specialty brandy portfolio FINE BRANDY.BY DESIGN™ has teamed up with one of South Africa’s top-rated restaurants to create a luxury, four-course brandy-paired menu.



Featuring a range of award-winning connoisseur brandies from Van Ryn’s, Oude Meester, Klipdrift and Collison’s, the gourmet menu deftly shows diners how versatile brandy can be as a dinner companion. The dishes have been created by The Roundhouse’s lead chefs, PJ Vadas and Eric Bulpitt, together with sommelier Joakim Hansi Blackadder.



The exclusive Camps Bay restaurant was recently ranked amongst South Africa’s Top Ten dining establishments in the 2011 Eat Out DSTV Food Network Awards, while Blackadder is the inaugural winner of the Bollinger Exceptional Wine Service award.



The Roundhouse, a National Monument, dates from the late 18th century and was at one time the hunting lodge of Lord Charles Somerset. With sweeping sea and mountain views, it has become a must-visit destination for international foodies visiting Cape Town.



Starting with lighter-bodied, more youthful potstills, the menu graduates to progressively complex, fuller-bodied potstills and all the cuisine has been designed accordingly. “The purpose is to showcase the best of South African brandy and underscore its rightful place with food, as is becoming the trend across Europe and America,” says spokesperson for the prestige brandy collection, Shelley Ellse.



Vardas and Bulpitt have been collaborating with the FINE.BRANDY.BY DESIGN™ portfolio for several months, successfully pairing the Roundhouse’s signature luxury dishes with brandies in the portfolio at events in the Cape and Johannesburg.



The menu is priced at R450 and forms part of The Roundhouse’s permanent selection.

Pairings include chicken, caramelised pear and white bean velouté with Oude Meester Demant, and cob, pickled mussels and sea lettuce with Collison’s White Gold; while fillet of venison and hay-ash baked beets and mulberries come with Klipdrift Gold. The brandies can firstly be tasted on their own, and thereafter with the especially designed cocktail paired with the dish. The meal culminates in a coffee and walnut sponge, served with orange creameux and butterscotch sauce, and is matched with Van Ryn’s 15 Year Old, a former winner of the Best Brandy trophy at the International Spirits Challenge in London.



DATE DECEMBER 2, 2011

ISSUED BY DKC (DE KOCK COMMUNICATIONS)

FOR FINE.BRANDY.BY DESIGN™

QUERIES SHELLEY ELLSE, SA MARKETING MANAGER/CARRIE SANDERS, SA BRAND MANAGER 021 809 7000 or 083 631 0624
MARLISE POTGIETER/SONJA BEZUIDENHOUT, DKC 021 422 2690

OIV RECOGNISES ENVIRONMENTAL BENEFITS OF CORK

OIV RECOGNISES ENVIRONMENTAL BENEFITS OF CORK

2 December 2011


The International Organisation of Vine and Wine (OIV) has officially
recognised the role of natural cork closures in reducing greenhouse gases.
At its recent General Assembly meeting in Montpellier, the OIV passed a
resolution (OIV-CST 431-2011) defining the general principles of an international greenhouse gas accounting protocol for the vine and wine sector.

Significantly, the organisation said the calculation of greenhouse gas
emissions relating to natural cork closures should take a holistic approach — meaning the carbon sink of cork oak forests and the carbon stored by cork closures should be taken into account.

The role cork oak forests play in the fight against global warming through
carbon sequestration is an attribute that distinguishes natural cork from all other types of wine closures.

The OIV resolution notes the positive impact of cork stoppers in the
calculation of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and states that:
“Cork closures represent a specificity of the wine sector and its use has an important impact in the sustainable conservation of forest. Because of this important role, carbon balance of corks may be taken into account when
applying the EP (Enterprise Protocol).

“When accounting the GHG emissions related to natural cork closures, the
cork production system should be considered from a holistic approach.

The final figures of the GHG emissions due to the cork production should consider the managed forest it comes from and its carbon sink effect.”

Amorim chairman and CEO António Amorim said the OIV resolution
reaffirmed the added value a cork closure brings to a wine and highlighted the positive role that natural cork plays in helping the wine industry to meet environmental challenges.

“Within the wine industry there is increasing recognition of corkʼs
environmental attributes and acknowledgement of the added value a quality
natural cork closure brings to a wine,” he said.

The 2008 PricewaterhouseCoopers life cycle analysis of wine closures shows
the quantifiable benefit that using cork closures has on the environment and when the sequestration of cork forests is taken into account, as suggested by the OIV, the differences in the environmental performance of natural and artificial closures is striking.

The study found that greenhouse gas emissions resulting from the life cycle of a screwcap are 24 times higher than those from a natural cork stopper, while a plastic stopper is responsible for 10 times more CO2 than a natural cork.

The CO2 emissions of 1000 cork stoppers amounted to 1533g of CO2e, while
the figure for plastic stoppers was 14,833g and for screwcaps 37,172g.1

However, these figures do not consider carbon sequestration. When carbon
sequestration is taken into account cork produces a negative emissions figure of –112,000g of CO2e.

This is best illustrated by the diagram below:
CO2 emissions (kg / 1000 stoppers)
Cork Aluminium
37
15
-112 Plastic
The PricewaterhouseCoopers report and a summary presentation are
available at www.corkfacts.com and www.amorim.com
* * *
NOTE 1: The calculation of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) in this instance refers to CO2
emissions during the life cycle (production, transport, associated packaging and end of life) of
1000 stoppers over 100 years.

NEDERBURG SHARES ITS MOST AWARDED WINES OF 2011

NEDERBURG SHARES ITS MOST AWARDED WINES OF 2011



A group of Johannesburg wine enthusiasts recently attended a showcase of Nederburg’s best rewarded wines of 2011 at the sensational Southern Sun Hyde Park.

While mingling with cellarmaster Razvan Macici and red winemaker Wilhelm Pienaar, they enjoyed delicious canapés and tasted 10 Nederburg wines that earned trophies, best-in-class ratings and gold medals at prominent local and international competitions during 2011.

DISTELL FETED BY NEW YORK

DISTELL FETED BY NEW YORK


Distell has been awarded the title of Distillery of the Year, winning the only double gold medal of the show at the 2011 New York International Spirits Competition.

This is the first time the company has entered the event that attracted over 300 entries from 30 nations worldwide.

The double gold honours went to Oude Meester’s specialty, top-of-the range, Souverein. The luxury brandy, a blend of Savalle-potstills matured in French oak for 18 years and longer, is no stranger to accolades. Earlier this year it was decorated with gold medals at both the Veritas and Michelangelo International Wine Awards.

The competition, that brings together New York’s leading importers, distributors, hotel beverage directors, restaurant and retail store owners to judge submissions by category and according to price point, also awarded silver medals to two other connoisseur brandies in the company’s FINE BRANDY.BY DESIGN™ portfolio.

These went to Oude Meester Reserve 12 Year Old and Van Ryn’s 20 Year Old. A third silver medal was earned by Distell’s popular cane spirit, Mainstay.

According to portfolio spokesperson Carrie Sanders, what makes the winning of the competition so significant is that its judging draws on the industry expertise of key members of the trade who serve as the gatekeepers to New York’s highly influential consumer base.

“New York is regarded by many as the style bar and club capital of the US. Trends are set here that are followed worldwide.”

DATE NOVEMBER 11, 2011
ISSUED BY DKC (DE KOCK COMMUNICATIONS)
FOR FINE BRANDY.BY DESIGN™
QUERIES CARRIE SANDERS, BRAND MANAGER (021) 809 7000 OR 079 096 7779
TESSA DE KOCK/MARLISE POTGIETER, DKC (021) 422 2690, 082 579 2358

Super Quaffer of the Year

What to do @ Whisky Live
Times LIVE
... Super Quaffer of the Year there will be “no evidence of gas” as
super sommelier Miguel Chan discovered when he scored it 85/100 points in
March.

JOHAN JORDAAN THE 2011 DINERS CLUB WINEMAKER OF THE YEAR

JOHAN JORDAAN THE 2011 DINERS CLUB WINEMAKER OF THE YEAR


Johan Jordaan, senior winemaker at Spier Wines since 2007, is the 2011 Diners Club Winemaker of the Year. This was announced at a gala event in Paarl on Saturday night (26 November). The Diners Club Young Winemaker of the Year is Matthew van Heerden of Uva Mira Vineyards.

It was the 31st time that the Winemaker of the Year Award, one of the most prestigious competitions for the South African wine industry, has been made and the 11th time in the case of the Young Winemaker’s.

Entrants are judged every year in a different wine category. This year participants in the Winemaker of the Year competition were judged for their Bordeaux-style red blends while young winemakers competed for the title with dry white wines.

Jordaan won the award for his 2009 Spier Creative Block 5, a blend of the five classical varietals that make up the Bordeaux-style blend. His was chosen from 110 entries, among the highest number yet received for the Winemaker of the Year.

In addition to the trophy he also receives a return ticket to any wine-producing country in the world plus a R50 000 travel allowance.

Matthew van Heerden won the title Young Winemaker of the Year for his 2009 Uva Mira Chardonnay, a single-vineyard wine of which 50% was aged for 11 months in new French oak. His entry was selected from a total of 64 and brought him, in addition to the trophy, also a cash prize of R25 000.

Chairman of the judging panel Dave Hughes lauded the quality of the entries saying South African winemakers had proved once again their world-class winemaking.

“The winning wines in this year’s competition are both absolutely world- class. The fact that both are from the 2009 vintage confirms the excellence of that year for winemaking.

It is probably our top vintage of the past 15 years.”


Diners Club MD Ebrahim Matthews said the growing number of entries confirmed the extent to which the competition had become the benchmark for the local wine industry.

“Its stature has grown over more than three decades with so many of South Africa’s foremost winemakers earning the ultimate accolade it bestows.”
The Creative Block 5 to win Johan Jordaan the title is a Cabernet Sauvignon-led blend, that also includes Merlot, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc and Malbec which together produced, according to the judges, “a great balance of fruit, tannins and alcohol”.

Matthew van Heerden, who also serves as the chairperson of the SA Chardonnay Forum and is passionate about this cultivar, said he strove in his winning wine for the utmost fruit purity and a wine that would reflect a true sense of place.

In addition to Dave Hughes the other members of the judging panel were Vincent Lignac, a sixth-generation winemaker from St Émilion and this year’s international judge; wine judge and commentator Neil Pendock; Carrie Adams, wine judge and specialist liquor retailer; Margaret Fry, Cape Wine Master; Colin Frith, wine judge and honorary Cape Wine Master and Ntsiki Biyela, winemaker for Stellakaya Winery.
Ends


ISSUED BY De Kock Communications (DKC)
ON BEHALF OF Diners Club South Africa
DATE ISSUED 26 November 2011
ENQUIRIES Jane Ledger, Diners Club regional manager: Western Cape,
021 795 5400, winemaker@dinersclub.co.za Linda Christensen, DKC, 021 873 2199, linda@dkc.co.za,

Southern Sun Stakes its Claim in Wine Accolades

Southern Sun Stakes its Claim in Wine Accolades

Friday, Oct 07 2011

Southern Sun has staked its claim in the ranks of the finest wine lists in South Africa, proving its commitment to providing Southern African consumers with a diverse and balanced selection of choice wine sourced from the finest wine regions the country and the world.


This follows the recent announcement of the prestigious 2011 Diners Club International Winelist Awards, in which Southern Sun scooped two Diamond and 13 Platinum awards.

In a surprise announcement VIN MMX at Sandton Sun won the ultimate honor for any restaurant in South Africa – the Diner’s Club ‘Best Wine List’ award for 2011 – a phenomenal achievement for a restaurant that has been operational for just 18 months.

The Diner’s Club awards are the second significant recognition of Southern Sun in two months, with Wine Spectator America last month recognizing VIN MMX as having ‘one of the most outstanding wine lists in the world’.

Aspiring to put Southern Sun hotel restaurants and bars on the map is Group Sommelier and wine-industry stalwart, Miguel Chan.

“Our aim is to ensure that our bars and restaurants are recognized as ‘THE’ establishments at which you will find the very best wines in SA, and the Diners Club International Wine List Awards are just the start.”

Southern Sun first motivated entry into the Awards in 2010, entering 95% of the group’s key bars and restaurants for placement.

“We were surprised when we returned with a number of Silver, Gold and Diamond awards.

Not only did this highlight our strengths, it gave us an idea as to the areas in need of improvement,” says Chan. “A year later, we are proud to have seen our restaurants improve upon their 2010 placements and further entrench Southern Sun’s growing status as parent company to some of the finest fine dining establishments in South Africa.

” The 2011 Diners Club International Winelist Awards saw Bernouillis at Southern Sun OR Tambo Airport, Punchinello’s at Southern Sun Montecasino , Southern Sun Cape Sun, BICE at Southern Sun Hyde Park and SAN at Sandton Sun all receive Platinum Award status, having been escalated from Gold status last year.

Oasis at Southern Sun Pretoria and Southern Newlands both received Platinum awards, having moved up from Silver in 2010.

The Intercontinental at OR Tambo Airport and Intercontinental Sandton Towers, as well as Medeo Restaurant at Palazzo Montecasino and Mondovino at SunSquare Montecasino retained the Platinum status awarded to them in 2010.

The hotly contested SA Best Wine Steward Award, a stand-alone category recognising emerging young talent in wine service, was awarded to Brilliant Mathelumusa of SunSquare Montecasino .


Making their mark in Durban, Elements Café at the Beverly Hills Hotel also joined the ranks of the best of the best in SA – with the Sugar Club earning Diamond and Elements Café scooping a Platinum award. The jewel in Southern Sun’s wine crown is undoubtedly VIN MMX at Sandton Sun which, under the leadership of Executive Chef Garth Shnier has received recognition across culinary circles.


The receipt of Diamond status, as well as the prestigious Diner’s Club SA National Best Wine Lists of 2011 Award, plus the recognition by Wine Spectator America, the most widely read and influential international wine publication, places this exclusive fine dining establishment in the ranks of the very finest wine lists in South Africa and the world.

“This is the first time in the 30 year history of the Wine Spectator Awards that a Johannesburg-based restaurant has received recognition and for a first time recipient to win the “Award of Excellence” is certainly a phenomenal achievement,” says Graham Wood, Managing Director of Southern Sun.

Wine Spectator''s Restaurant Wine List Awards recognise restaurants whose wine lists offer interesting selections, are appropriate to their cuisine and appeal to a wide range of wine lovers. “These awards are a proud moment in our history as they validate our commitment providing the very best service and dining options for our patrons,” Wood. He adds, “We believe that our position within these prestigious winelist awards will continue to grow from strength to strength as we embark on other innovative and highly sustainable initiatives.

We’re proud of what our Southern Sun bars and restaurants offer as quality dining establishments, and especially of our status as the provider of some of the finest wine lists in the world.”

2011 Diners Club Winelist award winners announced

2011 Diners Club Winelist award winners announced


October 4th, 2011 by Kate Els | Categories: beverages , food , hotels , industry , restaurants

The winners of the 2011 Diners Club Winelist Awards have been announced. The panel of judges bestowed the Diamond award for the best wine list nationally on the VIN MMX Restaurant in the Sandton Sun Hotel.

A first time entrant in the awards, the restaurant also recently won an award from US magazine, Wine Spectator in its wine list category.

Diners Club’s other category winners are Villa Bianca in Isando with Best Platinum, the Three Trees at Spioenkop restaurant in Ladysmith in KwaZulu-Natal with Best Gold, and Sage Restaurant in Stellenbosch with Best Silver, The restaurant 1800 Degrees in the Cape Royal Hotel in the Cape Town CBD was judged Best New Entry.

The Best Wine Steward competition, run concurrently with the Diners Club Winelist Awards, was won by Brilliant Mathelumusa of the Sun Square restaurant in Montecasino at Fourways in Gauteng. The runner-up was Solomon Ross of Marc’s Restaurant in Paarl.

Dave Hughes, well-known wine personality and chairman of the panel of judges, says the standard of entries was increasing year on year.

“I believe this is for a number of reasons. On the one hand diners who are exposed to a constantly growing array of excellent wines now expect to find their favourite wines on the wine list when they go out for a meal.

“At the same time there is a widespread awareness that some wines are better suited to a particular dish than others. This is the result, in my view of the strong accent on the relevance of food and wine pairing that is being promoted so extensively by the wine industry.

Menus and wine lists are increasingly being compiled in concert to encourage more compatible matching.”

Hughes says the tendency noticed last year of more and more restaurants offering quality wines by the glass was growing.

Again a number of factors could play a role in this. “First, it allows the more adventurous diner to experiment with wines he doesn’t know without having to commit to a full bottle.

“As a panel we were also delighted to notice the price spectrum covered in so many wine lists. By offering lower- and medium-priced wines in addition to those icon wines for special occasions, restaurants are better satisfying the needs of all their wine-loving patrons. And, of course, it also reflects a healthy dose of realism in the present tough economic times,” Hughes says.

Jane Ledger, Diners Club’s regional manager for the Western Cape, says the number of entries submitted for the competition has increased by more than 30% over the past two years while the geographic reach of the competition had also grown, with all the major hospitality areas of the country now well represented. “We see this growing support for the awards as recognition of the ever-increasing status they enjoy in the industry.”

Two Oceans Western Cape Pinot Noir 2011 88 Points

Two Oceans Western Cape Pinot Noir 2011 88 Points



Clear, bright ruby cherry red with slight purple rim, medium concentration and medium viscosity, no gas or sediment.

Clean with medium plus intensity, ripe cherries, strawberries and plums, slight wet earth note, subtle note of spicy oak, probably French oak, possibly very brief sojourn, excellent purity of fruit, still primary!, tutti frutti, but good Pinot definition, ripe.

Dry with some residual sugar, possibly less than 3 RS, with medium plus acidity, medium alcohol (excellent level of 12.5 ABV), low plus tannins, medium bodied, with new flavors of juicy currant, ripe strawberries, cranberries, balance ripeness with good fruit structure, fresh and elegant, brush of oak on texture, medium finish and medium complexity.

Huge step on the already good 2010, 2009 was fine but marred with huge bottle variations! 2011 is better in clour, truer Pinot hue, less alcohol a big bonus and less oak, preserving the integrity of ripe delicate fruit, subtle extraction.

Amazing value for less than R 35 bottle/retail, excellent by the glass, as a good, light to medium bodied red, will work with a versatility if food including gamefish.

For “extra”, enjoyement, this summer served lightly chilled at 12 degrees Celsius.

Now until 2016+

KWV IS 2011’S VERITAS CROWN PRINCE

MEDIA RELEASE

For immediate release 2011-10-09

KWV IS 2011’S VERITAS CROWN PRINCE


KWV has been crowned as the king of Veritas 2011. Last night (Saturday 8 October) this almost century old wine and brandy company with its headquarters in Paarl, received a remarkable five double gold and nine gold medals at the 2011 Veritas Award ceremony – the most double gold and gold medals ever won by one cellar. The event took place at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) and was sponsored by Agri-Expo.

Although no other cellar really followed closely on their heels other top achievers in terms of double gold and gold medals include: Boplaas Family Vineyards (3 double gold, 1 gold), Nederburg Wines (2 double gold, 9 gold), Nuy Wine Cellar (2 double gold, 7 gold), Distell Brandy (2 double gold, 6 gold), Bon Courage and Spier won 2 double gold and 5 gold medals each, Flagstone (2 double gold, 2 gold) and Kanonkop Wine Estate (2 double gold, 1 gold). Delaire Graff Estate also earned two double gold medals.

Out of a total of 1 739 entries 42 (2.41%) double gold, 158 (9.08%) gold, 609 (35.0%) silver and 619 (35.6%) bronze medals were awarded.

BE ON THE LOOKOUT FOR THESE TOP WINES & BRANDIES

Just ten top wine and brandy cellars laid claim to more than half of this year’s double gold medals. Double gold medals will adorn KWV’s The Mentors Sauvignon Blanc 2009, the 2009 The Mentors Petit Verdot, as well as their Cape Classic Tawny Port and an exceptional 1930 Muscadel LBV. A double gold for their 15 year old pot still brandy again confirmed their prowess on both the wine and brandy front.

Boplaas Family Vineyards, South Africa’s leading port masters, is second in the double gold row with three of these coveted awards for their Cape Tawny Port, the 2009 Cape Vintage Port, and a 1997 Tawny Port Reserve.

This year Nederburg received two double gold medals for a 2003 Private Bin Edelkeur Noble Late Harvest and a 2010 Private Bin Eminence natural sweet wine.

Nuy Wine Cellar’s double gold trio were awarded for their 2007 Nuy White Muscadel and a 1989 Red Muscadel.

Two of Distell’s premium brandy brands won the favour of the judges and consequently double gold status: Flight of the Fish Eagle and Van Ryn’s 12 year old Distillers Reserve.

Bon Courage boasts with two double gold awards for their 2006 Blanc de Blanc Jacques Bruére as well as a 2011 Red Muscadel.

Spier, last year’s top achiever, won two double gold medals for the 2010 Woolworths Classic Chenin Blanc and the Woolworths The Hutton Cabernet Sauvignon from the 2008 vintage.

Flagstone’s two double gold medals were awarded for their Music Room Cabernet Sauvignon and the Writer's Block Pinotage, both from the 2009 vintage.

Two double gold medals went to Kanonkop for their 2006 and 2008 Pinotage.

Delaire Graff Estate deserved two double gold medals for the 2009 Cape Vintage Port and the 2010 Chenin Blanc.

Cabernet Sauvignon took the lead in double gold medals with five awards, followed by Red Blends (4), Pinotage (4), Port (4), Muscadel (3), Pot still Brandy (3), Wooded Chenin Blanc (2), Sauvignon Blanc (no wood) (2), Méthode Cap Classique (2), Shiraz (2), Wooded Chardonnay (1), Wooded Gewürztraminer (1), Wooded Sauvignon Blanc (1), Natural Sweet White (1), Merlot (1), Other Red Cultivar (1). The Museum Class yielded five double gold awards for Dessert Wine (2), Noble Late Harvest (1), Port (1), and Red Wine (1).

Red Blends topped the list of gold medal winners with 16 awards, followed by Shiraz (14), Pot Still Brandy (13), Sauvignon Blanc (no wood) (12), Cabernet Sauvignon (12), Merlot (9), Wooded Chenin Blanc (8), Méthode Cap Classique (8), Chenin Blanc (no wood) (7), Pinotage (6), Muscadel (6), Colombar (no wood) (4), White blends (no wood) (3), Wooded Chardonnay (3), Port (3), Dessert wine (3), Wooded white blends (2), Chardonnay (no wood) (2), Wooded Sauvignon Blanc (2), Weisser Riesling/Rhine Riesling (no wood) (2), Wooded Viognier (1), Special Late Harvest (1), Straw wine (1), Natural Sweet White (1), Noble Late Harvest (no wood) (1), Wooded Noble Late Harvest (1), Rosé (1), Cabernet Franc (1), Pinot Noir (1), Other red cultivar (1), Sherry (1), Standard Brandy (1). In the Museum Class Dessert Wine (6), Noble Late Harvest (2), White wine (1), Port (1), and Red wine (1) won gold medals.

The full results are available online at www.veritas.co.za.

INTERNATIONAL JUDGES JOIN FORCES WITH LOCAL TEAM


1 739 wines and brandies were put through their paces by a team of more than 100 local judges, augmented by the skills and experience of nine international wine and brandy experts.

The imposing international team of judges included the first South African chairperson of the Institute of Masters of Wine, Lynne Sherriff (England); well known wine writer and panel chairperson of the International Wine Challenge in London, Christine Austin (England); Johan Larsson (Sweden) chief wine buyer of South African wines for the Swedish wine retail monopoly, Systembolaget; and John and Nellie Salvi (France). John, MW, is a viticulturist, wine writer and wine maker, while his wife Nellie is a wine writer and owner of a company organising wine tours and technical symposiums.

Joining them was Thomas Lüber (Germany), chief buyer of South African wines for WIV Wein International AG; Australian born Richard Rowe, currently chief wine maker at KWV, as well as the French brandy expert Denis Lahouratate from Biscuit in Cognac, and Dave Hughes, our very own wine and spirits connoisseur and internationally respected judge.

TASTE VERITAS WINNERS RIGHT ON YOUR DOORSTEP


Wine enthusiasts in Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban, Knysna and Port Elizabeth will stand a chance to taste these top Veritas achievers – without having to purchase the lot.

Capetonians can taste the Veritas achievers at the VOC Room (Southern Sun Cape Sun, Strand Street) on 18 October from 17:00 to 20:00 with tickets at R130 pp. The Johannesburg tasting takes place on 26 October from 17:00 to 20:00 at the Bill Gallagher Room of the Sandton Convention Centre – tickets cost R140. Wine lovers in Durban will get their chance on 3 November from 17:00 to 20:00 at the Function Room, Deloitte Head Office in Umhlanga - tickets are R100 each. Tasters will be able to enjoy this year’s Qualité cheese champions during these sessions too.

Squires Legendary Grill in the Boardwalk centre in Beach Road will be the venue where wine lovers in Port Elizabeth can gather for a sit-down tasting event of 16 wines that includes light refreshments on 15 November starting at 18:00 (R100 pp). In Knysna the Veritas victors can be tasted during a dinner hosted at Kilzers Kitchen on 16 November from 19:00 – tickets cost R240. There will also be a sit – down tasting session with selected wines and snacks on 17 November from 18:00 to 20:00 at R85 per person at Kilzers.

Tickets for tastings in Cape Town, Johannesburg and Durban are available at Computicket. Bookings for the Port Elizabeth and Knysna events must be made with the various organisers.

This year’s tastings are supported by the professional services company, Deloitte.


For the latest news about Veritas, as well as interesting interviews with the organisers, international judges and top achievers, visit the online Veritas press office at www.winenews.co.za. Contact Elsabé Ferreira at tel (021) 807 3104, email to information@veritas.co.za or visit www.veritas.co.za for more information.

END

Issued by Marlene Truter Communications
tel 082 7727 519 email info@marlenetruter.co.za

On behalf of Veritas Awards
Contact Elsabé Ferreira
tel 021 8073104 email information@veritas.co.za

Records tumble at best ever Nedbank CWG Auction

Records tumble at best ever Nedbank CWG Auction


Taste the 2011 CWG Auction wines at Cape Wine Europe 2011: 11 & 12 October at Earls Court, London - STAND 19

Records tumbled at the 27th Nedbank Cape Winemakers Guild auction held in the Stellenbosch winelands over the weekend, with a record turnover of R5 286 700, a new record price for red wine and overseas sales doubling. Despite the record turnover up by R1,4 million over the previous year and some outstanding prices, the 2011 Auction offered excellent value for money and great diversity.

The highest price per case, a new Auction record of R6 000, was paid by a Belgian buyer for the Boekenhoutskloof Syrah Auction Reserve 2009.

“We got the balance right between the ratio of white and the red wines on offer this year and the great diversity of wines ensured keen bidding and interest from the floor right until the end. There was something for everyone with good value on offer as buyers snatched up wines at competitive prices on the one hand, with the more sought-after collector’s items fetching exceptionally good prices on the other,” said Louis Strydom, Chairman of the Cape Winemakers Guild.

The auction, conducted by Henré Hablutzel of Hofmeyr Mills Auctioneers for the 14th consecutive year, attracted 122 buyers this year including 19 from overseas with a total of 2 955 cases sold at an average price of R1 789 per case equivalent of 6 X 750ml bottles. The lineup of 56 wines included 38 red wines, 13 white wines, 2 Méthode Cap Classiques, a dessert wine, a port and a potstill brandy.

Alan Pick of The Butcher Shop and Grill triumphed for the 10th consecutive year as the biggest spender at R1,3 million. The bulk of the wines, over 70%, was bought by local buyers with a record R1,5 million spent by overseas bidders headed by the United Kingdom with R586 400 this year. Overseas bids came from the United Kingdom, Belgium, Denmark, Germany, Namibia, Czech Republic, Hong Kong, Netherlands and Canada.

In addition to the record breaking red wine, other top selling wines included Kanonkop CWG Pinotage 2009 with an average price per case of R3 843, Hartenberg Estate Auction Shiraz 2009 selling at R3 264, Kanonkop CWG Paul Sauer 2008 at R3 237, Bouchard Finlayson Pinot Noir 2009 at R3 212, Neil Ellis Rodanos 2007 at R3 125 and the Saronsberg Die Erf Grenache 2010 averaging at R2 677.

Amongst the white wines, top selling wines were the Jordan Chardonnay Auction Reserve 2010 with an average price per case of R2 285, Paul Cluver The Wagon Trail Chardonnay 2009 at R2 100, the Cape Point Vineyards Barrel Fermented Sauvignon Blanc 2010 at R1 822.

In addition to the main auction, a total of R132 600 was raised on the day in aid of the Cape Winemaker’s Guild Protégé Programme, a mentorship initiative for young, upcoming winemakers. Every year a very special charity item is auctioned off to raise funds. This year’s item, a one-of-a-kind 18-litre 2009 Cape Winemakers Guild Auction Reserve comprising a blend of top wines from members of the Guild, was purchased by Zdenek Lang of the Czech Republic for R25 000. This was the third consecutive year that the charity item was bought by Lang, who has donated it back to the Guild for resale at the 2012 charity auction.

Exceptional wines with a creative edge and great diversity of styles was the hallmark of the Guild’s 2011 auction, recognised as South Africa’s leading wine auction open to the wine trade and the general public. All the wines are crafted exclusively for the Auction by members of the Guild to represent the pinnacle of what can be achieved in South African winemaking.

For further information on the wines auctioned and their highest, lowest and average prices, please visit the Auction Page on our Website.

Please visit our Facebook Page for more Auction Week Photos.

38 Wines to seek out at the Nederburg Auction 2011 (16 & 17 September)

38 Wines to seek out at the Nederburg Auction 2011 (16 & 17 September)


I was honored to be asked to contribute as a judge at this year 2011 Nederburg Auction pre selection tasting and was involved with a flight of 180 wines over 2 days, all tasted blind.

Below are my finding, hope you will have fun bidding later and tomorrow, these wines will certainly add value to your private cellar or wine lists


2 mature red wine to seek out at 2011 Nederburg Auction to drink now and until 2014


L’Avenir Simonsberg- Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon 1992

Kanonkop Estate Simonsberg- Stellenbosch Paul Sauer 1995

4 Cabernet Sauvignon to seek out at 2011 Nederburg Auction to drink now and until 2016


Le Bonheur Simonsberg- Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon 1999

Nederburg Private Bin R 163 Coastal Region Cabernet Sauvignon 2001

Neethlingshof Lord Neethling Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon 2001

Tokara Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon 2001

Top 3 Cabernet Sauvignon of 2011 Nederburg Auction


1 - Nederburg Private Bin R 163 Coastal Region Cabernet Sauvignon 2001

2 - Tokara Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon 2001

3 - Le Bonheur Simonsberg- Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon 1999

2 Red Blend to seek out at 2011 Nederburg Auction to drink now and until 2016


Le Bonheur Simonsberg- Stellenbosch Prima 2001

Neethlingshof Stellenbosch Lord Neethling Laurentius 2002

5 Pinotage to seek out at 2011 Nederburg Auction to drink now and until 2021


Spier Private Collection Stellenbosch Pinotage 2004

Jacobsdal Stellenbosch Pinotage 2005

Graham Beck Old Road Coastal Region Pinotage 2006

Kanonkop Simonsberg- Stellenbosch Pinotage 1999

KWV Western Cape Pinotage 2006

Top 3 Pinotage of 2011 Nederburg Auction


1 - Spier Private Collection Stellenbosch Pinotage 2004

2 -Kanonkop Simonsberg- Stellenbosch Pinotage 1999

3 - Graham Beck Old Road Coastal Region Pinotage 2006

The one and only Merlot to seek out at Nederburg Auction 2011



De Grendel Durbanville Merlot 2005


3 Sauvignon Blanc to seek out at 2011 Nederburg Auction to drink now and until 2016 - 2018


Kleine Zalze Family Reserve Coastal Region Sauvignon Blanc 2006

Lomond Sugarbush Cape Agulhas Sauvignon Blanc 2007

Spier Private Collection Coastal Region Sauvignon Blanc 2007

3 Sauvignon Blanc to seek out at 2011 Nederburg Auction to drink now and until 2019 - 2021


Fryer’s Cove Bamboes Bay Sauvignon Blanc 2009

Nederburg Private Bin D 215 Groenekloof Sauvignon Blanc 2009

Nederburg Private Bin D 234 Western Cape Sauvignon Blanc 2009

Top 3 Sauvignon Blanc of 2011 Nederburg Auction


1 - Kleine Zalze Family Reserve Coastal Region Sauvignon Blanc 2006

2 - Fryer’s Cove Bamboes Bay Sauvignon Blanc 2009

3 - Nederburg Private Bin D 234 Western Cape Sauvignon Blanc 2009

4 Chardonnay to seek out at 2011 Nederburg Auction to drink now and until 2016 - 2018


Uva Mira Vineyard Selection Stellenbosch Chardonnay 2004

De Wetshof Bateleur Unfiltered Robertson Chardonnay Magnum 2006

Mulderbosch Barrel Fermented Stellenbosch Chardonnay 2006

Uva Mira Single Vineyard Stellenbosch Chardonnay 2009


Top 3 Chardonnay of 2011 Nederburg Auction


1 - Uva Mira Single Vineyard Stellenbosch Chardonnay 2009

2 - Mulderbosch Barrel Fermented Stellenbosch Chardonnay 2006

3 - De Wetshof Bateleur Unfiltered Robertson Chardonnay Magnum 2006

Chardonnay for a very special occasion


De Wetshof Estate Finesse Robertson Chardonnay 1993

7 Natural Sweet and Fortified Wine for special celebration ideal to end a special meal or shared with close ones


Bredell’s Stellenbosch Vintage Reserve Port 1991

KWV White Port 1966

KWV Jerepigo 1969

KWV Jerepigo 1973

Boland Paarl Wit Muskadel 1997

Nuy Rooi Muskadel 2004

Klein Constantia Estate Constantia Vin de Constance 1988

Top 3 Natural Sweet and Fortified Wine of 2011 Nederburg Auction


1 - Klein Constantia Estate Contantia Vin de Constance 1988

2 - KWV White Port 1966

3 - Bredell’s Stellenbosch Vintage Reserve Port 1991

2 Great Noble Late Harvest to seek out at Nederburg Auction 2011 perfect for drinking now


Nederburg Edelkeur 1979
De Wetshof Estate Noble Late Harvest 1991


4 Great Noble Late Harvest to seek out at Nederburg Auction 2011 perfect for the cellar, if you can resist


Nederburg Eminence 2001

Nederburg Eminence 2005

Neethlingshof Stellenbosch Weisser Riesling Noble Late Harvest 2003

Neethlingshof Lord Neethling Stellenbosch Weisser Riesling Noble Late Harvest 2007

Top 3 Noble Late Harvest of 2011 Nederburg Auction


1 - Nederburg Eminence 2001

2 - Nederburg Eminence 2005

3 - Neethlingshof Stellenbosch Weisser Riesling Noble Late Harvest 2003

Miguel Chan Top 10 to seek out at 2011 Nederburg Auction


1 - Kleine Zalze Family Reserve Coastal Region Sauvignon Blanc 2006

2 - De Wetshof Estate Finesse Robertson Chardonnay 1993

3 - De Wetshof Estate Robertson Noble Late Harvest 1991

4 - Nederburg Eminence 2001

5 - Klein Constantia Estate Contantia Vin de Constance 1988

6 - Mulderbosch Barrel Fermented Stellenbosch Chardonnay 2006

7 - KWV White Port 1966

8 - Fryer’s Cove Bamboes Bay Sauvignon Blanc 2009

9 - De Wetshof Bateleur Unfiltered Robertson Chardonnay Magnum 2006

10 - Uva Mira Single Vineyard Stellenbosch Chardonnay 2009

Miguel Chan Top 10 to seek out at 2011 Nederburg Auction

Miguel Chan Top 10 to seek out at 2011 Nederburg Auction

1 - Kleine Zalze Family Reserve Coastal Region Sauvignon Blanc 2006

2 - De Wetshof Estate Finesse Robertson Chardonnay 1993

3 - De Wetshof Estate Robertson Noble Late Harvest 1991

4 - Nederburg Eminence 2001

5 - Klein Constantia Estate Contantia Vin de Constance 1988

6 - Mulderbosch Barrel Fermented Stellenbosch Chardonnay 2006

7 - KWV White Port 1966

8 - Fryer’s Cove Bamboes Bay Sauvignon Blanc 2009

9 - De Wetshof Bateleur Unfiltered Robertson Chardonnay Magnum 2006

10 - Uva Mira Single Vineyard Stellenbosch Chardonnay 2009

Top 3 Noble Late Harvest of 2011 Nederburg Auction

Top 3 Noble Late Harvest of 2011 Nederburg Auction

1 - Nederburg Eminence 2001

2 - Nederburg Eminence 2005

3 - Neethlingshof Stellenbosch Weisser Riesling Noble Late Harvest 2003

4 Great Noble Late Harvest to seek out at Nederburg Auction 2011 perfect for the cellar, if you can resist

4 Great Noble Late Harvest to seek out at Nederburg Auction 2011 perfect for the cellar, if you can resist


Nederburg Eminence 2001

Nederburg Eminence 2005

Neethlingshof Stellenbosch Weisser Riesling Noble Late Harvest 2003

Neethlingshof Lord Neethling Stellenbosch Weisser Riesling Noble Late Harvest 2007

2 Great Noble Late Harvest to seek out at Nederburg Auction 2011 perfect for drinking now

2 Great Noble Late Harvest to seek out at Nederburg Auction 2011 perfect for drinking now

Nederburg Edelkeur 1979

De Wetshof Estate Noble Late Harvest 1991

Top 3 Natural Sweet and Fortified Wine of 2011 Nederburg Auction

Top 3 Natural Sweet and Fortified Wine of 2011 Nederburg Auction

1 - Klein Constantia Estate Contantia Vin de Constance 1988

2 - KWV White Port 1966

3 - Bredell’s Stellenbosch Vintage Reserve Port 1991

7 Natural Sweet and Fortified Wine for special celebration ideal to end a special meal or shared with close ones

7 Natural Sweet and Fortified Wine for special celebration ideal to end a special meal or shared with close ones


Bredell’s Stellenbosch Vintage Reserve Port 1991

KWV White Port 1966

KWV Jerepigo 1969

KWV Jerepigo 1973

Boland Paarl Wit Muskadel 1997

Nuy Rooi Muskadel 2004

Klein Constantia Estate Constantia Vin de Constance 1988

Chardonnay for a very special occasion

Chardonnay for a very special occasion


De Wetshof Estate Finesse Robertson Chardonnay 1993

Top 3 Chardonnay of 2011 Nederburg Auction

Top 3 Chardonnay of 2011 Nederburg Auction


1 - Uva Mira Single Vineyard Stellenbosch Chardonnay 2009

2 - Mulderbosch Barrel Fermented Stellenbosch Chardonnay 2006

3 - De Wetshof Bateleur Unfiltered Robertson Chardonnay Magnum 2006

4 Chardonnay to seek out at 2011 Nederburg Auction to drink now and until 2016 - 2018

4 Chardonnay to seek out at 2011 Nederburg Auction to drink now and until 2016 - 2018


Uva Mira Vineyard Selection Stellenbosch Chardonnay 2004

De Wetshof Bateleur Unfiltered Robertson Chardonnay Magnum 2006

Mulderbosch Barrel Fermented Stellenbosch Chardonnay 2006

Uva Mira Single Vineyard Stellenbosch Chardonnay 2009

Top 3 Sauvignon Blanc of 2011 Nederburg Auction

Top 3 Sauvignon Blanc of 2011 Nederburg Auction

1 - Kleine Zalze Family Reserve Coastal Region Sauvignon Blanc 2006

2 - Fryer’s Cove Bamboes Bay Sauvignon Blanc 2009

3 - Nederburg Private Bin D 234 Western Cape Sauvignon Blanc 2009

3 Sauvignon Blanc to seek out at 2011 Nederburg Auction to drink now and until 2019 - 2021

3 Sauvignon Blanc to seek out at 2011 Nederburg Auction to drink now and until 2019 - 2021


Fryer’s Cove Bamboes Bay Sauvignon Blanc 2009

Nederburg Private Bin D 215 Groenekloof Sauvignon Blanc 2009

Nederburg Private Bin D 234 Western Cape Sauvignon Blanc 2009

3 Sauvignon Blanc to seek out at 2011 Nederburg Auction to drink now and until 2016 - 2018

3 Sauvignon Blanc to seek out at 2011 Nederburg Auction to drink now and until 2016 - 2018


Kleine Zalze Family Reserve Coastal Region Sauvignon Blanc 2006

Lomond Sugarbush Cape Agulhas Sauvignon Blanc 2007

Spier Private Collection Coastal Region Sauvignon Blanc 2007

The one and only Merlot to seek out at Nederburg Auction 2011

The one and only Merlot to seek out at Nederburg Auction 2011

De Grendel Durbanville Merlot 2005

Top 3 Pinotage of 2011 Nederburg Auction

Top 3 Pinotage of 2011 Nederburg Auction


1 - Spier Private Collection Stellenbosch Pinotage 2004

2 -Kanonkop Simonsberg- Stellenbosch Pinotage 1999

3 - Graham Beck Old Road Coastal Region Pinotage 2006

5 Pinotage to seek out at 2011 Nederburg Auction to drink now and until 2021

5 Pinotage to seek out at 2011 Nederburg Auction to drink now and until 2021


Spier Private Collection Stellenbosch Pinotage 2004

Jacobsdal Stellenbosch Pinotage 2005

Graham Beck Old Road Coastal Region Pinotage 2006

Kanonkop Simonsberg- Stellenbosch Pinotage 1999

KWV Western Cape Pinotage 2006

2 Red Blend to seek out at 2011 Nederburg Auction to drink now and until 2016

2 Red Blend to seek out at 2011 Nederburg Auction to drink now and until 2016

Le Bonheur Simonsberg- Stellenbosch Prima 2001

Neethlingshof Stellenbosch Lord Neethling Laurentius 2002

Top 3 Cabernet Sauvignon of 2011 Nederburg Auction

Top 3 Cabernet Sauvignon of 2011 Nederburg Auction


1 - Nederburg Private Bin R 163 Coastal Region Cabernet Sauvignon 2001

2 - Tokara Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon 2001

3 - Le Bonheur Simonsberg- Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon 1999

4 Cabernet Sauvignon to seek out at 2011 Nederburg Auction to drink now and until 2016

4 Cabernet Sauvignon to seek out at 2011 Nederburg Auction to drink now and until 2016


Le Bonheur Simonsberg- Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon 1999

Nederburg Private Bin R 163 Coastal Region Cabernet Sauvignon 2001

Neethlingshof Lord Neethling Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon 2001

Tokara Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon 2001

2 mature red wine to seek out at 2011 Nederburg Auction to drink now and until 2014

2 mature red wine to seek out at 2011 Nederburg Auction to drink now and until 2014

1 - L’Avenir Simonsberg- Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon 1992
2 - Kanonkop Estate Simonsberg- Stellenbosch Paul Sauer 1995

SOUTH AFRICAN SOMMELIERS ASSOCIATION (SASA)

SOUTH AFRICAN SOMMELIERS ASSOCIATION (SASA)


“To Promote a Culture of Fine Wine, Food and Service Excellence in Southern Africa”


The South African Sommelier Association (SASA) is in the final stages of establishing itself as an integral part of the food and wine industry in South Africa.

The movement was started in 2010 when a group of similar-minded individuals got together in the hope of forming an association to help uplift and promote the service of wine in South Africa.


SASA will be a non-profit organization, and we aim aim to offer our services to local and international Sommeliers, as the contact and network portal for those local and international.

Our aim will be to provide training and mentorships to guarantee the continuous development of professional standards of the highest level.
We will also liaise (or partner) with associations from other countries and will therefore act as an official representative of our professional membership within South Africa.

Our Primary Objectives are to:
• Promote, Regulate and Orchestrate the South African Sommeliers’ Profession;
• Facilitate education and training of, Support, Represent, Motivate and Promote SASA accredited Sommeliers
• Promote a Public Interest in the Culture of Fine Wine, Food and Service Excellence in Southern Africa
• Establish a Common Forum for Dialogue, Debate, the Exchange of Ideas, Knowledge and Skills among Industry Professionals

SASA Membership options include:
• Wine Enthusiast
• Corporate Membership
• Wine Advisor Membership
• Professional Sommelier Membership

We are making careful but deliberate progress, ensuring that the correct procedures are followed in putting structures in place.

Currently the necessary papers are with lawyers who are busy with the process of registering a non-profit organisation. We appreciate your patience while we formalise our establishment, and we will keep you up to date on future developments.

For further information and updates please follow us on:
Twitter – SAsommeliers or Facebook – www.facebook.com/sasomm

Or contact us via email: info@sommeliers.org.za

Yours faithfully

The Executive Committee
Neil Grant, Miguel Chan, Higgo Jacobs, Mia Martensson, Kent Scheermeyer, Jӧrg Pfützner, Francis Krone


South African Sommelier Association


Postal address: PO Box 120, Plumstead, 7801
Members: Neil Grant (Chairman), Miguel Chan (Vice-Chair), Higgo Jacobs (Secretary), Maria Mårtensson, Kent Scheermeyer, Jörg Pfützner, Francis Krone

Miguel Chan Top 10 CWG wines of 2011

Miguel Chan Top 10 CWG wines of 2011



What makes a Top 10 wines out of a line’s up of 58 wines from some of South Africa’s finest site and winemakers?

Excellent purity of fruit, freshness, gentle extraction, ripe tannins, subtle oaking , balanced, aptitude for longevity, and overall complexity comparable to some of the world’s benchmark was what I was seeking for.

All wines were tasted sighted.

1 – Paul Cluver Estate The Wagon Trail Elgin Chardonnay 2009 93 Points


By far the best white wine of this year’s CWG line up, this is a chiseled Burgundian profile with an impressive citrus burst, leesy richness well frame in a tight mineral core, precise and linear, athletic.

Though seductive now, will start reaching it’s full stride around 2016, if you are patient enough and have the proper cellaring facilities will peak around 2022, until 2024.

26 cases on offer

2 - Cape Point Vineyards Barrel Fermented Sauvignon Blanc 2010 93Points


Could have been the white wine of this year too, was very close, nevertheless this Graves like Sauvignon with elusive black currant leaf, grapefruit and green lime, the inclusion of 10% Semillon, lends a fullness to the mid palate, with a spicy persistent farewell, now until 2011 – 2024.
46 cases on offer


3 – Flagstone Happy Hour 2009 92 Points



If there is one element that jumps out of this wine is the sandy mineral and sea breeze character, so typical of the Elim provenance of the 57% Sauvignon Blanc and 29% Semillon, with the Elgin Viognier component lending some green pineapple note and full texture, screamingly complex, now until 2024
60 cases on offer

4 – Saronsberg Die Erf Tulbagh Grenache Noir 2010 92 Points


Revelation of this year’s lines up and the red wine of this 2011 auction, opulent, Satsuma plums, cedar note, with leathery richness yet well offset by a precise sappy freshness, impressive, now until 2017
26 cases on offer


5 – Paul Cluver Estate CWG Elgin Pinot Noir 2010 92 Points


Fragrant, Morello cherries, Burgundian palate restraint, crunchy with a mid palate stuffing, an understated intellectual Pinot, that is starting to get together, yet have the stamina to developed even more complex note, and can be cellared until 2021
40 cases on offer


6 – Spier Stellenbosch Pinotage 2009 92 Points


Some might criticize the richness and opulence of this wine, yet it conceal it’s 15.87 % ABV very well, showing ripe plums, lavender floral note, eucalyptus, a rich style with broad mouth feels, yet lively and fresh, perfect now until 2019
42 cases on offer


7 – De Trafford Sijnn Swellendam Touriga Nacional 2009 92 Points


The Douro valley greatest variety, either fortified as in Port or still. Here in it’s local interpretation, this is an exciting red from the newly created ward of Malgas near the mouth of the Breede River.
Revealing pure blackberry, cassis, savoury seaweedy note, linear, best revisited around 2015, should drink well until 2019
64 cases on offer

8 – Boekenhoutskloof Swartland Syrah Auction Reserve 2009 92 Points


From organically grown grapes, this Northern Rhone profile, reveal a kind of Cote Rotie style, seductive feminine texture, slight floral note, fresh, excellent purity, from now until 2021
30 cases on offer

9 – Ernie Els CWG 2009 91 Points


Expert blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Shiraz and 10 % Merlot, complex blackcurrant note, ripe, graphite layers, silky tannins, lush, polished style, impressive purity, best from 2015 until 2019
70 cases on offer

10 – Le Riche Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon Auction Reserve 2008 91Points


The only member to have produce an auction wine continuously since 1985, this is a classically style Cabernet with textbook blackcurrant, cassis and graphite mineral note, cedar wood complexity, fresh and savory, pure, as great as a Cabernet should be! Now until 2021
96 cases on offer

Raise your paddle

Raise your paddle


Cape wine master Jenny Ratcliffe-Wright, and wine expert and Sommelier Miguel Chan attended the pre-auction tutored tasting of the Cape Winemakers Guild at the Nedbank offices in Sandton.

Each member of the guild makes a special wine, their best effort and puts it forward to the rest of the members.

Only the best wines get selected from there. Most wines are only 1 barrel. So if you love truly rare and unique wines, make sure you bid on the 1st of October at 9am.

Phone 021 852 0408
info@capewinemakersguild.com
www.capewinemakersguild.com

Here are Jenny’s top 10 picks: wines you simply cannot live without


1.Cape Point Vineyards Barrel fermented Sauvignon Blanc 2010
90% Sav and 10% Semillon. Beautifully mineral. Only 65 cases produced and 46 on auction

2. Teddy Hall Hendrik Biebouw Auction Reserve Chenin Blanc 2010
Prides himself in always having the longest wine name and this one won again. Lemon flavours and lovely oak

3. De Grendel Op Die Berg Pinot Noir 2010
Marzipan, clean and fresh. Delicately perfumed. Only 40 cases available

4.Hartenberg Loam Hill Merlot 2009
86% Merlot, 9% Cab, 5% Malbec, this wine is big, modern and beautiful.

5. Waterford Estate 2009 Auction Reserve BB
75% Cab and 25% Merlot from the lovely Kevin Arnold. Huge flavour and length. Grab it, only 50 cases available

6. Neil Ellis Rodanos 2007
61% Shiraz and 39% Grenache. It was aromatic, and wild and sexy

7.Haskell The Expatriate 2009
My wine of the day, made by the only female winemaker on the guild, Rianie Strydom

8.Le Riche Cabernet Sauvignon Auction Reserve
Certainly the most classic Cabernet on the auction and probably in South Africa.

9.Boekenhoutskloof Syrah Auction Reserve 2009
This is made from organic grapes, but not certified (too much paperwork), from a little parcel in the Swartland

10.Cederberg Teen Die Hoog Shiraz 2009
100% shiraz, this was perfumed and elegant, from the highest vineyard in South Africa

Here are Miguel's top 10 picks


What makes a Top 10 wines out of a line’s up of 58 wines from some of South Africa’s finest site and winemakers?

Excellent purity of fruit, freshness, gentle extraction, ripe tannins, subtle oaking , balanced, aptitude for longevity, and overall complexity comparable to some of the world’s benchmark was what I was seeking for.
All wines were tasted sighted.



1.Paul Cluver Estate The Wagon Trail Elgin Chardonnay 2009 93 Points

By far the best white wine of this year’s CWG line up, this is a chiseled Burgundian profile with an impressive citrus burst, leesy richness well frame in a tight mineral core, precise and linear, athletic.

Though seductive now, will start reaching it’s full stride around 2016, if you are patient enough and have the proper cellaring facilities will peak around 2022, until 2024.

26 cases on offer

2.Cape Point Vineyards Barrel Fermented Sauvignon Blanc 2010 93 Points

Could have been the white wine of this year too, was very close, nevertheless this Graves like Sauvignon with elusive black currant leaf, grapefruit and green lime, the inclusion of 10% Semillon, lends a fullness to the mid palate, with a spicy persistent farewell, now until 2011 – 2024.

46 cases on offer

3.Flagstone Happy Hour 2009 92 Points

If there is one element that jumps out of this wine is the sandy mineral and sea breeze character, so typical of the Elim provenance of the 57% Sauvignon Blanc and 29% Semillon, with the Elgin Viognier component lending some green pineapple note and full texture, screamingly complex, now until 2024

60 cases on offer

4. Saronsberg Die Erf Tulbagh Grenache Noir 2010 92 Points

Revelation of this year’s lines up and the red wine of this 2011 auction, opulent, Satsuma plums, cedar note, with leathery richness yet well offset by a precise sappy freshness, impressive, now until 2017

26 cases on offer



5. Paul Cluver Estate CWG Elgin Pinot Noir 2010 92 Points

Fragrant, Morello cherries, Burgundian palate restraint, crunchy with a mid palate stuffing, an understated intellectual Pinot, that is starting to get together, yet have the stamina to developed even more complex note, and can be cellared until 2021

40 cases on offer

6.Spier Stellenbosch Pinotage 2009 92 Points

Some might criticize the richness and opulence of this wine, yet it conceal it’s 15.87 % ABV very well, showing ripe plums, lavender floral note, eucalyptus, a rich style with broad mouth feels, yet lively and fresh, perfect now until 2019

42 cases on offer

7. De Trafford Sijnn Swellendam Touriga Nacional 2009 92 Points

The Douro valley greatest variety, either fortified as in Port or still. Here in it’s local interpretation, this is an exciting red from the newly created ward of Malgas near the mouth of the Breede River.

Revealing pure blackberry, cassis, savoury seaweedy note, linear, best revisited around 2015, should drink well until 2019

64 cases on offer

8.Boekenhoutskloof Swartland Syrah Auction Reserve 2009 92 Points

From organically grown grapes, this Northern Rhone profile, reveal a kind of Cote Rotie style, seductive feminine texture, slight floral note, fresh, excellent purity, from now until 2021

30 cases on offer

9.Ernie Els CWG 2009 91 Points

Expert blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Shiraz and 10 % Merlot, complex blackcurrant note, ripe, graphite layers, silky tannins, lush, polished style, impressive purity, best from 2015 until 2019

70 cases on offer

10.Le Riche Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon Auction Reserve 2008 91 Points

The only member to have produce an auction wine continuously since 1985, this is a classically style Cabernet with textbook blackcurrant, cassis and graphite mineral note, cedar wood complexity, fresh and savory, pure, as great as a Cabernet should be! Now until 2021

96 cases on offer

Le Riche Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon 2008 91 Points

Le Riche Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon 2008 91 Points


Medium clear, bright, ruby red with slight purple rim, high concentration, high viscosity, no gas or sediment.

Clean, high intensity, textbook Cabernet fruit purity, blackcurrant, cassis, blueberries, ripe plums, earthy loamy note, complex oaking, lending vanilla, cedarwood, tobacco, this is so seductive! “aromatics”, very Pauillac like.

Dry, medium plus acidity, high alcohol though (14.5%), medium plus ripe tannins, blackcurrant, cassis follows through, stony liqueur.

Complex, broad mouth feels, yet retain an impressive precision, freshness and ripe in textured, smoky, savoury black olives note, medium plus length and medium plus complexity.

This is by far and not only Stellenbosch, but South Africa’s finest Cabernet Sauvignon, fantastic now, but will cellar well until 2021.

Avondale Cyclus Paarl 2009 86 Points

Avondale Cyclus Paarl 2009 86 Points



Clear, day bright, pale straw with medium concentration and medium viscosity, no gas but some tartaric crystal as sediment.

Clean, medium plus intensity, white peach, just ripe apricot, lemon curd, brush of honey and straw with jasmine like floral note, some minerality and pine resin character, subtly oaked, complex and layered.

Dry with some residual sugar, medium plus acidity, high alcohol though (14%), stone fruit such as peaches and apricot follows through, lemony, creamy, textured mid palate, medium plus length and medium plus complexity.

100% Paarl grown Viognier 60% grapes with the balance made up of Chenin Blanc, Chardonnay and Semillon grapes, natural fermentation only.

The vines range from 8 to 20 years in age, with yields of between yields from 4 to 8 tons of healthy, balanced grapes
The hand-picked, organically grown grapes were harvested at 22˚ and 23˚ balling.

Whole bunches pressed 60% was fermented in 500-litre French Oak barrels and then kept on the lees for 10 to 11 months. The balance was fermented in stainless tanks.

www.avondalewine.co.za

La Vierge Hemel-en-Aarde Ridge Pinot Noir 2010 90 Points

La Vierge Hemel-en-Aarde Ridge Pinot Noir 2010 90 Points


Clear, bright, cherry red with pale rim, low plus concentration, high viscosity, no gas or sediment.

Clean, high intensity, ripe cherries, strawberries flakes, raspberries, complex, delicately ripe red berries, earthy, dusty clay note, complex oaking (30 % new), fragrant, cedarwood (9 months)

Dry, medium plus to high acidity, high alcohol (14.5 ABV), low tannin, crunchy (20% whole bunch), sour cherries note, spicy oak, savoury, elegant, precise and focus, now until 2020.

Maiden Vintage from the newly declared ward of Hemel en Aarde Ridge, 5 year old vineyard, planted on Argillaceous Shale of the Bokkeveld Series, North West aspect at 5500 vines per ha, yields limited to 6.5 tons/ha (42 hl/ha), total production is 7998 bottles.