Old Mutual Trophy Wine Show 2011
I was humbly pleased and honored to be asked once again to participate as a Judge at this year Old Mutual Trophy Wine Show 2011, South Africa's most respected wine judging competition.
This will be my second year as a Judge, 2010 was my first and I previously officiate as an Associate Judge in 2008 & 2009.
This year marked the 10th Old Mutual Trophy Wine Show.
The 2011 judging panel comprises three international judges and six local judges, chaired by leading wine authority, Michael Fridjhon.
The international judges are Thierry Desseauve, one of the founding partners (with Michel Bettane) of the La Revue de Vins du France and co-author and publisher of France's wine guide 'Le Grand Guide des Vins de France'; Neal Martin, of the UK, founder of wine-journal.com and now The Wine Advocate's South African reviewer and Robert Parker's Critic-at-large; and Debra Meiburg, founder and director of the Hong Kong International Wine and Spirit Competition as well as a broadcaster and educator.
The South African judges are Miguel Chan (group sommelier, Southern Sun hotels), Ginette de Fleuriot (Cape Wine Master and national retail sales manager, Wine Worx/Vinimark), Gary Jordan (proprietor and winemaker, Jordan Wines), Christian Eedes (wine writer), François Rautenbach (head sommelier wine programme, Singita Lodges) and Master of Wine Cathy van Zyl.
The participation of a team of associate judges, drawn from the pool of rising South African winemaking and judging talent, is included in a supportive capacity.
The list of wines and producers in attendance at the public tastings will be kept under wraps until 1 June when the full results of the show are announced.
Said Fridjhon, "The past decade has seen extraordinary changes at the top end of the South African wine industry and the show played an important role in discovering new talent and showcasing this achievement."
Diarise the dates for the annual public tastings in Cape Town on Thursday 9 June 2011 at the CTICC and in Johannesburg on Friday 10 June at the Sandton Sun. Highlights of the show are the unveiling of the most successful producer and the discovery of the show.
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Monday, February 28, 2011
Saronsberg Tulbagh Methode Cap Classique Brut 2007 89 Points
Saronsberg Tulbagh Methode Cap Classique Brut 2007 89 Points
Clear, bright, pale straw with yellow reflections, medium concentration, low viscosity, consistent bubbles, combination of fine and coarse, no sediment.
Clean, austere initially, but when settle +/- 3 minute reveals medium intensity with intense appley note, oxidative style, lime and yellow citrus medley, blanched almonds, light toast reminescent of corn flakes, ripe gold kiwi, white riverine pebbles, mineral driven with some white pepper spiciness! delicately oaked, very complex.
Dry or Brut style by South African standard, high acidity buffered by just perfect dosage, creamy and round with new flavours of orange and grapefruit segment and fresh lime, gold kiwi follows through, zesty feel, rich style without being heavy, honeyed aftertaste with almondy note farewell, very fresh style.
It's without a doubt Tulbagh district finest Cap Classique to date (with no disrespect to Krone Borealis which have always been very good and consistent....but somehow lacks the final X factor).
Need time to reveals it's best + / - 2 years, revisit around 2013+
Served at 9 degrees celsius paired with either the followings:
Pineapple tarte tatin with Bourbon vanilla ice cream and slaty pistacchio crumble
or
South African Camembert spike with Madagascan green peppercorn puff pastry, crunchy Asian pear and endives salad
or
Smoked Ceres wild trout with shaved baby fennel salad, poached farm duck eggs and sauce hollandaise, bruschetta with Saronsberg extra virgin olive oil
Now until 2019
Clear, bright, pale straw with yellow reflections, medium concentration, low viscosity, consistent bubbles, combination of fine and coarse, no sediment.
Clean, austere initially, but when settle +/- 3 minute reveals medium intensity with intense appley note, oxidative style, lime and yellow citrus medley, blanched almonds, light toast reminescent of corn flakes, ripe gold kiwi, white riverine pebbles, mineral driven with some white pepper spiciness! delicately oaked, very complex.
Dry or Brut style by South African standard, high acidity buffered by just perfect dosage, creamy and round with new flavours of orange and grapefruit segment and fresh lime, gold kiwi follows through, zesty feel, rich style without being heavy, honeyed aftertaste with almondy note farewell, very fresh style.
It's without a doubt Tulbagh district finest Cap Classique to date (with no disrespect to Krone Borealis which have always been very good and consistent....but somehow lacks the final X factor).
Need time to reveals it's best + / - 2 years, revisit around 2013+
Served at 9 degrees celsius paired with either the followings:
Pineapple tarte tatin with Bourbon vanilla ice cream and slaty pistacchio crumble
or
South African Camembert spike with Madagascan green peppercorn puff pastry, crunchy Asian pear and endives salad
or
Smoked Ceres wild trout with shaved baby fennel salad, poached farm duck eggs and sauce hollandaise, bruschetta with Saronsberg extra virgin olive oil
Now until 2019
Tierhoek Piekenierskloof Chenin Blanc 2009 89 Points
Tierhoek Piekenierskloof Chenin Blanc 2009 89 Points
Clear, bright pale straw with yellow refelctions, medium concentration, medium viscosity, no evidence of gas or sediment.
Clean, medium plus intensity with notes of fleshy red apples, lime, hay, white peaches and camomille, stony minerality (possibly and perhaps greatly aided by the age of the vines at 32 years old, in such high altitude, over 700 metres above sea level, dry land farming) delicately oaked, French oak vanillin, Old World, very Loire, Vouvray to be more precise like profile
Dry with some residual sugar, high acidity, new flavours of just ripe peach, green lime and tangerine, medium plus alcohol, very well balance, medium plus complexity and medium plus lenght lenght, now until 2019.
What is exciting about this new release Chenin Blanc from Tierhoek, is that it is perhaps the finest they have made to date, but of note, the wine shows a richness without being heavy and yes there is residual sugar and fruit concentration that only old vines can give, but there is not that sense that Noble Late Harvest wine were deliberately added to "beef up" the style, as so many South African producers does, there might be a soupcon of botrytised grapes in the process, which is all natural and lends complexity and extra layer of intrigue, well done to Roger Burton, the winemaker
Clear, bright pale straw with yellow refelctions, medium concentration, medium viscosity, no evidence of gas or sediment.
Clean, medium plus intensity with notes of fleshy red apples, lime, hay, white peaches and camomille, stony minerality (possibly and perhaps greatly aided by the age of the vines at 32 years old, in such high altitude, over 700 metres above sea level, dry land farming) delicately oaked, French oak vanillin, Old World, very Loire, Vouvray to be more precise like profile
Dry with some residual sugar, high acidity, new flavours of just ripe peach, green lime and tangerine, medium plus alcohol, very well balance, medium plus complexity and medium plus lenght lenght, now until 2019.
What is exciting about this new release Chenin Blanc from Tierhoek, is that it is perhaps the finest they have made to date, but of note, the wine shows a richness without being heavy and yes there is residual sugar and fruit concentration that only old vines can give, but there is not that sense that Noble Late Harvest wine were deliberately added to "beef up" the style, as so many South African producers does, there might be a soupcon of botrytised grapes in the process, which is all natural and lends complexity and extra layer of intrigue, well done to Roger Burton, the winemaker
Kleine Zalze Vineyard Selection Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon 2008 84 Points
Kleine Zalze Vineyard Selection Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon 2008 84 Points
Medium clear, bright, ruby cherry red with slight mahogany rim, no evidence of gas or sediment.
Clean, medium plus intensity, ripe and fragrant blackcurrant, cassis and red berries, ripe strawberries, earthy, loamy soil and dark rocks, generously wooded, sliightly over the top with oak vanillin, cedar wood, musk spice evident, soupcon of nutty / coconutty American oak as well as some charry note.
Dry, medium plus acidity, probably acidified, as it not not fully integrated, new flavours of dark ripe cherries, cassi, savoury basalmic note and lots of tobacco, high alcohol (14.5 ABV), but well balanced, medium plus lenght and medium complexity, now until 2019
Medium clear, bright, ruby cherry red with slight mahogany rim, no evidence of gas or sediment.
Clean, medium plus intensity, ripe and fragrant blackcurrant, cassis and red berries, ripe strawberries, earthy, loamy soil and dark rocks, generously wooded, sliightly over the top with oak vanillin, cedar wood, musk spice evident, soupcon of nutty / coconutty American oak as well as some charry note.
Dry, medium plus acidity, probably acidified, as it not not fully integrated, new flavours of dark ripe cherries, cassi, savoury basalmic note and lots of tobacco, high alcohol (14.5 ABV), but well balanced, medium plus lenght and medium complexity, now until 2019
Tullie Family Vineyards The Yair Darling Sauvignon Blanc & Semillon 2009 84+ Points
Tullie Family Vineyards The Yair Darling Sauvignon Blanc & Semillon 2009 84+ Points
Clear, day bright, straw with green reflections, medium concentration and medium plus viscosity, no evidence of gas or sediment.
Cleanm medium plus intensity, asparagus, lime, gooseberry, waxy green pears, dried fig, high pyrazine, dusty granite minerals, subtle oaking, probably French oak.
Dry with medium plus acidity, medium plus alcohol, new flavours of green peas and grapefruit zest, mineral core follows through, integrated oak, fine depth with medium complexity and lenght, now until 2016.
The grapes come from Lanner Hill farm in Darling, in my experience and based on consistent track record, one of best Sauvignon Blanc vineyards in Darling district on the Cape West Coast, example to support this evidence is Kumkani Lanner Hill Sauvignon Blanc, one of South Africa's ageworthy and top notch Sauvignon and regular award winning wine.
Clear, day bright, straw with green reflections, medium concentration and medium plus viscosity, no evidence of gas or sediment.
Cleanm medium plus intensity, asparagus, lime, gooseberry, waxy green pears, dried fig, high pyrazine, dusty granite minerals, subtle oaking, probably French oak.
Dry with medium plus acidity, medium plus alcohol, new flavours of green peas and grapefruit zest, mineral core follows through, integrated oak, fine depth with medium complexity and lenght, now until 2016.
The grapes come from Lanner Hill farm in Darling, in my experience and based on consistent track record, one of best Sauvignon Blanc vineyards in Darling district on the Cape West Coast, example to support this evidence is Kumkani Lanner Hill Sauvignon Blanc, one of South Africa's ageworthy and top notch Sauvignon and regular award winning wine.
Limelight Robertson Chardonnay & Pinot Noir 2010 85 Points
Limelight Robertson Chardonnay & Pinot Noir 2010 85 Points
Clear, bright, onion skin with slight coppery reflections, medium concentration and low viscosity, no evidence of gas or sediment.
Clean, low plus intensity with notes of lime and delicate citrus zest, cranberry, beer shandy / leesy note, some limestone minerality, flirt of old wood.
Dry with residual sugar well offset by high natural malic acidity, linear profile, low alcohol(12 ABV) new flavours of just ripe white grapes, crunchy / sherbety, lean without being facile, rather steely, fresh and fine lenght and complexity, now until 2014.
Clear, bright, onion skin with slight coppery reflections, medium concentration and low viscosity, no evidence of gas or sediment.
Clean, low plus intensity with notes of lime and delicate citrus zest, cranberry, beer shandy / leesy note, some limestone minerality, flirt of old wood.
Dry with residual sugar well offset by high natural malic acidity, linear profile, low alcohol(12 ABV) new flavours of just ripe white grapes, crunchy / sherbety, lean without being facile, rather steely, fresh and fine lenght and complexity, now until 2014.
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Le Riche Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 85 Points
Le Riche Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 85 Points
Clear, bright, cherry red with mahogany rim, medium plus concentration and medium plus viscosity, no evidence of gas or sediment.
Clean, medium plus intensity with ripe blackcurrant, cassis and sour cherries fruit, textbook Stellenbosch Cabernet with tobacco, earthy fragrant oak, but well in balance.
Dry, medium acidity, medium plus alcohol, medium tannin, new flavours of savoury red fruits, black olives paste spicy smoky oak, with some eucaplyptus note, medium lenght and medium complexity, now until 2019.
Consistently one of South Africa very top Cabernet Sauvignon, this is the "entry level" and then there is the Reserve range, both excellent and this particular bottling is very well price and excellent for listing in a dining environment.
If served under South African climatic condition, poured at 14 degrees celsius served with a grilled sirloin with mushroom and green peppercorn sauce
Clear, bright, cherry red with mahogany rim, medium plus concentration and medium plus viscosity, no evidence of gas or sediment.
Clean, medium plus intensity with ripe blackcurrant, cassis and sour cherries fruit, textbook Stellenbosch Cabernet with tobacco, earthy fragrant oak, but well in balance.
Dry, medium acidity, medium plus alcohol, medium tannin, new flavours of savoury red fruits, black olives paste spicy smoky oak, with some eucaplyptus note, medium lenght and medium complexity, now until 2019.
Consistently one of South Africa very top Cabernet Sauvignon, this is the "entry level" and then there is the Reserve range, both excellent and this particular bottling is very well price and excellent for listing in a dining environment.
If served under South African climatic condition, poured at 14 degrees celsius served with a grilled sirloin with mushroom and green peppercorn sauce
Martin Meinert Devon Valley Merlot 2007 85 Points
Martin Meinert Devon Valley Merlot 2007 85 Points
Clear, bright, cherry red with mahogany rim, medium plus concentration, medium viscosity, no evidence of gas or sediment.
Clean, medium plus intensity, ripe plums, cassis with minty / eucaplyptus note*, earthy fragrant oak and tobacco note
Dry, medium acidity, medium tannin, medium alcohol, new flavours of savoury cherries, olives, fine richness, fresh and bright, medium complexity and medium lenght, now until 2017.
This is an elegant Old World feel Merlot, one of the Cape most consistent.
*Minty / Eucaplyptus note, is not a terroir aspect, but it is well documented via extensive research, that it is the results of water stress.
If served under South African climatic condition, poured at 13 degrees celsius will paired perfectly with a confir of pork terrine, bacon, green peppercorn and mint onion marmelade
Clear, bright, cherry red with mahogany rim, medium plus concentration, medium viscosity, no evidence of gas or sediment.
Clean, medium plus intensity, ripe plums, cassis with minty / eucaplyptus note*, earthy fragrant oak and tobacco note
Dry, medium acidity, medium tannin, medium alcohol, new flavours of savoury cherries, olives, fine richness, fresh and bright, medium complexity and medium lenght, now until 2017.
This is an elegant Old World feel Merlot, one of the Cape most consistent.
*Minty / Eucaplyptus note, is not a terroir aspect, but it is well documented via extensive research, that it is the results of water stress.
If served under South African climatic condition, poured at 13 degrees celsius will paired perfectly with a confir of pork terrine, bacon, green peppercorn and mint onion marmelade
Martin Meinert FCM The Italian Job Devon Valley White Merlot 2009 87 Points
Martin Meinert FCM The Italian Job Devon Valley White Merlot 2009 87 Points
First South African winery to produce a barrel fermented White Merlot, limited production of only 2 barrel or around 500 bottles, the maiden vintage was in 2008 which was a fine debut, but 2009 is a rather big step above, with more complexity, freshness and properly white in color with a slight coppery reflection.
Inspired following a trip to the Italian side of Switzerland, where this unusual but rewarding style can be found, get it if you can, and surprise your friend, one of the most interesting wine to date I have tasted from the Cape.
Clear, day bright pale straw with yellow / coppery reflections, crystalline, low plus concentration, medium viscosity, no evidence of gas or sediment.
Clean, medium plus acidity, nutty, toasty, hazelnut, burnt citrus and almonds/marzipan, "Burgundian" mealy note.
Dry, medium plus acidity, low plus alcohol, tight mid palate, nutty profile with new flavours of pistacchio, leesy richness, medium lenght and medium complexity, now until 2017
If served under South African climatic condition served at 12 degrees celsius with a lightly smoked KZN Midlands trout risotto, Maldon sea salt, fried capers and parmesan, Courgette dice.
FCM stands for Family Collection Merlot
First South African winery to produce a barrel fermented White Merlot, limited production of only 2 barrel or around 500 bottles, the maiden vintage was in 2008 which was a fine debut, but 2009 is a rather big step above, with more complexity, freshness and properly white in color with a slight coppery reflection.
Inspired following a trip to the Italian side of Switzerland, where this unusual but rewarding style can be found, get it if you can, and surprise your friend, one of the most interesting wine to date I have tasted from the Cape.
Clear, day bright pale straw with yellow / coppery reflections, crystalline, low plus concentration, medium viscosity, no evidence of gas or sediment.
Clean, medium plus acidity, nutty, toasty, hazelnut, burnt citrus and almonds/marzipan, "Burgundian" mealy note.
Dry, medium plus acidity, low plus alcohol, tight mid palate, nutty profile with new flavours of pistacchio, leesy richness, medium lenght and medium complexity, now until 2017
If served under South African climatic condition served at 12 degrees celsius with a lightly smoked KZN Midlands trout risotto, Maldon sea salt, fried capers and parmesan, Courgette dice.
FCM stands for Family Collection Merlot
Martin Meinert La Barry Elgin Sauvignon Blanc 2010 90 Points
Martin Meinert La Barry Elgin Sauvignon Blanc 2010 90 Points
Clear, day bright, pale straw with slight green reflections, medium concentration and medium plus viscosity, no evidence of gas or sediment.
Clean, high intensity notes of ripe gooseberries, fragrant kaffir lime, kiwi and passion fruit with clay / quartz minerality, pithy, grapefruit note, no wood.
Dry with high acidity, medium alcohol, new flavours of lime zest, spicy white pepper, with a textured mid palate structure, complex linear profile, zesty, racy and athletic style, medium plus lenght and medium plus complexity, lots of minerality, now until 2019.
If served under South African climatic condition served at 8 degrees celsius, with a skate wing in light lemon butter sauce and crunchy green and red peppers dices, rocket leaves.
Clear, day bright, pale straw with slight green reflections, medium concentration and medium plus viscosity, no evidence of gas or sediment.
Clean, high intensity notes of ripe gooseberries, fragrant kaffir lime, kiwi and passion fruit with clay / quartz minerality, pithy, grapefruit note, no wood.
Dry with high acidity, medium alcohol, new flavours of lime zest, spicy white pepper, with a textured mid palate structure, complex linear profile, zesty, racy and athletic style, medium plus lenght and medium plus complexity, lots of minerality, now until 2019.
If served under South African climatic condition served at 8 degrees celsius, with a skate wing in light lemon butter sauce and crunchy green and red peppers dices, rocket leaves.
Martin Meinert Stellenbosch Synchronicity 2005 82+ Points
Martin Meinert Stellenbosch Synchronicity 2005 82+ Points
Blend of Cabernet Sauvignon 67%, Merlot 19%, Pinotage 14%, now until 2016>
100% Stellenbosch
Blend of Cabernet Sauvignon 67%, Merlot 19%, Pinotage 14%, now until 2016>
100% Stellenbosch
Ken Forrester Noble Late Harvest Stellenbosch Chenin Blanc T 2008 87+ Points
Ken Forrester Noble Late Harvest Stellenbosch Chenin Blanc T 2008 87+ Points
Clear, day bright, straw gold with yellow reflections, medium concentration and medium viscosity, no evidence of gas or sediment.
Clean, high intensity, sunripened stone fruit such as peach, apricot and dried ripe mango, baked Golden Delicious apples, honeyed richness, custard and fresh waffles with complex botrytis note, fragrant oak, toast and smoke complexity.
Sweet, medium plus acidity, low alcohol, new flavours of roasted nectarines, grilled almonds flakes, viscous andf rich without being heavy, fine depth, Loire like cross of Bonnezeaux and Vouvray, medim plus complexity and lenght, now until 2019+
This is a barrel fermented Chenin Blanc, French oak, pick when it's shows Botrytis, 4 to 5 times harvest, Old Stellenbosch bushvines, fairly old barrels.
Served at 8 degrees Celsius, with a grilled seasonal South African peaches, Gorgonzola ice ream and amaretti
Clear, day bright, straw gold with yellow reflections, medium concentration and medium viscosity, no evidence of gas or sediment.
Clean, high intensity, sunripened stone fruit such as peach, apricot and dried ripe mango, baked Golden Delicious apples, honeyed richness, custard and fresh waffles with complex botrytis note, fragrant oak, toast and smoke complexity.
Sweet, medium plus acidity, low alcohol, new flavours of roasted nectarines, grilled almonds flakes, viscous andf rich without being heavy, fine depth, Loire like cross of Bonnezeaux and Vouvray, medim plus complexity and lenght, now until 2019+
This is a barrel fermented Chenin Blanc, French oak, pick when it's shows Botrytis, 4 to 5 times harvest, Old Stellenbosch bushvines, fairly old barrels.
Served at 8 degrees Celsius, with a grilled seasonal South African peaches, Gorgonzola ice ream and amaretti
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Martin Meinert Stellenbosch Synchronicity 2005 82+ Points
Martin Meinert Stellenbosch Synchronicity 2005 82+ Points
Medium clear, bright, dark cherry red with russet/mahogany rim, showing evolution, medium plus concentration, medium plus viscosity, no evidence of gas or sediment.
Clean, medium plus intensity ripe plums, dark red fruit, earthy dark soil, spicy oak layered with tobacco andcedar wood, minty profile with slight tertiary evolution note.
Dry, medium acidity, medium plus alcohol, medium tannin new leathery / gamey note, medium lenght and medium complexity, now until 2016
If poured under South African weather condition, served at 13 degrees celsius and paired with a rosemary scented Springbok loin, grained mustard mash and light veal jus
Medium clear, bright, dark cherry red with russet/mahogany rim, showing evolution, medium plus concentration, medium plus viscosity, no evidence of gas or sediment.
Clean, medium plus intensity ripe plums, dark red fruit, earthy dark soil, spicy oak layered with tobacco andcedar wood, minty profile with slight tertiary evolution note.
Dry, medium acidity, medium plus alcohol, medium tannin new leathery / gamey note, medium lenght and medium complexity, now until 2016
If poured under South African weather condition, served at 13 degrees celsius and paired with a rosemary scented Springbok loin, grained mustard mash and light veal jus
Klein Constantia KC Western Cape Cabernet Sauvignon & Merlot 2008 85 Points
Klein Constantia KC Western Cape Cabernet Sauvignon & Merlot 2008 85 Points
Medium clear, bright, dark cherry/plum red, mahogany/russet rim, high concentration, high viscosity, no evidence of gas or sediment.
Clean, medium plus intensity, ripe/jammy notes of cassis, blackcurrant, ripe plums & blackberries, earthy, delicately wooded, spicy profile.
Dry, medium acidity, medium plus alcohol, medium tannin, new flavours of savoury black olives, currants, sappy with lead pencil minerality, warming style rather full bodied, now until 2015.
If poured under South African weather condition, served at 13 degrees Celsius, perfect with a wood fired "Regina" style pizza with ham, fresh brown mushroom and crushed fresh bird eye chillies
Medium clear, bright, dark cherry/plum red, mahogany/russet rim, high concentration, high viscosity, no evidence of gas or sediment.
Clean, medium plus intensity, ripe/jammy notes of cassis, blackcurrant, ripe plums & blackberries, earthy, delicately wooded, spicy profile.
Dry, medium acidity, medium plus alcohol, medium tannin, new flavours of savoury black olives, currants, sappy with lead pencil minerality, warming style rather full bodied, now until 2015.
If poured under South African weather condition, served at 13 degrees Celsius, perfect with a wood fired "Regina" style pizza with ham, fresh brown mushroom and crushed fresh bird eye chillies
Robertson Winery Robertson Chardonnay 2010 84 Points
Robertson Winery Robertson Chardonnay 2010 84 Points
Clear, day bright, pale straw with yellow reflections, low concentration, medium viscosity, some evidence of CO2 gas, no sediment.
Clean, medium plus intensity with notes of poached pears, green pineapples, citrus medley and floral note of camomille, limestone minerality and hits of sea weed.
Delicate oaking (20%) with hints of vanilla and spicy oak / musk spice.
Dry to off dry, low plus acidity, medium alcohol, new flavours of Asian Pears, citrus zest, pithy, orange segment, medium lenght and medium concentration, now until 2016
Great for home drinking with light lunch fares, especially grilled hake and lemon butter
Clear, day bright, pale straw with yellow reflections, low concentration, medium viscosity, some evidence of CO2 gas, no sediment.
Clean, medium plus intensity with notes of poached pears, green pineapples, citrus medley and floral note of camomille, limestone minerality and hits of sea weed.
Delicate oaking (20%) with hints of vanilla and spicy oak / musk spice.
Dry to off dry, low plus acidity, medium alcohol, new flavours of Asian Pears, citrus zest, pithy, orange segment, medium lenght and medium concentration, now until 2016
Great for home drinking with light lunch fares, especially grilled hake and lemon butter
Zorgvliet Banhoek Petit Verdot 2006 85+ Points
Zorgvliet Banhoek Petit Verdot 2006 85+ Points
Medium clear, dark mruby red with purple rim, saturated, high concentration and high viscosity, no evidence of gas but a rather heavy deposit of fine sediment.
Clean, pronounce leesy reduction initially, but through gentle decanting and 2 hours of aeration, wears off, high intensity very ripe plums, blackcurrant, blueberries, cassi and red wild fruit of the forest, earthy dark loamy soils, very ripe and very high alcohol perceptible (15 ABV), tad oaky with cedarwood and varnish note, tobacco, Cubana cigarello and French oak evident.
Dry, medium plus acidity, possibly acidified, high alcohol follows through, saturated, very concentrated style, with new flavours of mocha, black cherry jam, game and cured meat note, medium tannin, ripe texture, quite "Bordeaux" feel, medium plus lenght and medium plus complexity, now until 2019.
Tasted over 48 hours, this is a perfect wine release too early! Would actually benefit in magnum bottling.
What to pair with? A monster wine well in balance in most part, except for the alcohol, a meal in itself, perhaps best during winter time with a hearty beef cheek stew and roots vegetable and baked potato
Medium clear, dark mruby red with purple rim, saturated, high concentration and high viscosity, no evidence of gas but a rather heavy deposit of fine sediment.
Clean, pronounce leesy reduction initially, but through gentle decanting and 2 hours of aeration, wears off, high intensity very ripe plums, blackcurrant, blueberries, cassi and red wild fruit of the forest, earthy dark loamy soils, very ripe and very high alcohol perceptible (15 ABV), tad oaky with cedarwood and varnish note, tobacco, Cubana cigarello and French oak evident.
Dry, medium plus acidity, possibly acidified, high alcohol follows through, saturated, very concentrated style, with new flavours of mocha, black cherry jam, game and cured meat note, medium tannin, ripe texture, quite "Bordeaux" feel, medium plus lenght and medium plus complexity, now until 2019.
Tasted over 48 hours, this is a perfect wine release too early! Would actually benefit in magnum bottling.
What to pair with? A monster wine well in balance in most part, except for the alcohol, a meal in itself, perhaps best during winter time with a hearty beef cheek stew and roots vegetable and baked potato
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Cape Point Vineyards Cape Point Sauvignon Blanc 2010 90+ Points
Cape Point Vineyards Cape Point Sauvignon Blanc 2010 90+ Points
Clear, day bright, pale straw with green reflections, medium concentration and medium viscosity, evidence of CO2 gas, no sediment
Clean, medium plus intensity with notes of goosberries, green peas, green lime and grassy note as well as crushed blackcurrant leaf, kaolin mineral and pebbles.
Delicate florality, such as white arum / frangipani and Russian tarragon herb.
Dry, high positive acidity a rare facet of South African Sauvignon, medium alcohol, new flavours of freshly squeeze white grape fruit and yellow citrus, spicy white pepper and unusual salty minerals.
Racy, athletic style, there is so much energy in this wine wow, testament Cape Point Vineyards is amongst the greatest Sauvignon Blanc of the world.
Medium plus complexity, medium lenght, excellent now, but should start unfolding and revealing true potential from 2014, judgement base on previous vintage development.
Enjoyed with classic simple cuisine made with freshest ingredient.
If cellared properly will reward enjoyement until 2020+
*Integrity and Sustainibility Certified, sealed under screw cap, purchase at Pick & Pay Lonehill at R 95 / bottle
Clear, day bright, pale straw with green reflections, medium concentration and medium viscosity, evidence of CO2 gas, no sediment
Clean, medium plus intensity with notes of goosberries, green peas, green lime and grassy note as well as crushed blackcurrant leaf, kaolin mineral and pebbles.
Delicate florality, such as white arum / frangipani and Russian tarragon herb.
Dry, high positive acidity a rare facet of South African Sauvignon, medium alcohol, new flavours of freshly squeeze white grape fruit and yellow citrus, spicy white pepper and unusual salty minerals.
Racy, athletic style, there is so much energy in this wine wow, testament Cape Point Vineyards is amongst the greatest Sauvignon Blanc of the world.
Medium plus complexity, medium lenght, excellent now, but should start unfolding and revealing true potential from 2014, judgement base on previous vintage development.
Enjoyed with classic simple cuisine made with freshest ingredient.
If cellared properly will reward enjoyement until 2020+
*Integrity and Sustainibility Certified, sealed under screw cap, purchase at Pick & Pay Lonehill at R 95 / bottle
Shannon Vineyards Sanctuary Peak Elgin Sauvignon Blanc 2010 88 Points
Shannon Vineyards Sanctuary Peak Elgin Sauvignon Blanc 2010 88 Points
Clear, day bright, pale straw with slight green reflection, medium concentration and medium plus viscosity, evidence of CO2 gas, no sediment.
Clean, medium plus intensity with notes of ripe gold kiwi, gooseberry and lime, grassy layers with white clay minerals, faint brush of wood, complex and layered.
Dry, medium plus acidity,medium alcohol, new flavours of ripe Granny Smith apples, crunchy style with a certain tighness in structure, medium lenght and medium complexity, with some phenolic richness, now until 2017, tense, minerally driven, different in a positive way to previous vintages, need food to express it's best.
Served at 10 degrees celsius with a Cantonese style sweet and sour white fish fillet, ginger and carrots.
Clear, day bright, pale straw with slight green reflection, medium concentration and medium plus viscosity, evidence of CO2 gas, no sediment.
Clean, medium plus intensity with notes of ripe gold kiwi, gooseberry and lime, grassy layers with white clay minerals, faint brush of wood, complex and layered.
Dry, medium plus acidity,medium alcohol, new flavours of ripe Granny Smith apples, crunchy style with a certain tighness in structure, medium lenght and medium complexity, with some phenolic richness, now until 2017, tense, minerally driven, different in a positive way to previous vintages, need food to express it's best.
Served at 10 degrees celsius with a Cantonese style sweet and sour white fish fillet, ginger and carrots.
Almenkerk Wine Estate Elgin Chardonnay 2010 87 Points
Almenkerk Wine Estate Elgin Chardonnay 2010 87 Points
Clear, bright straw with yellow green reflections, medium concentration and medium plus viscosity, no evidence of gas or sediment.
Clean, medium plus intensity of sun ripened peach, orrange, tangerines as well as some pineapples, riper spectrum of Chardonnay fruit!
Mineral evident, sweet fruited, leesy complexity, oak vanilla still integrating, ripe structure.
Dry, medium plus acidity, spiny structure, medium alcohol, with new flavours of very ripe Golden Delicious apples, light toast, fresh and elegant, now until 2019+
Served preferably decanted at 12 degrees celsius with a Pan seared diver scallops, chorizo dust, cos lettuce and Piperade sauce
Clear, bright straw with yellow green reflections, medium concentration and medium plus viscosity, no evidence of gas or sediment.
Clean, medium plus intensity of sun ripened peach, orrange, tangerines as well as some pineapples, riper spectrum of Chardonnay fruit!
Mineral evident, sweet fruited, leesy complexity, oak vanilla still integrating, ripe structure.
Dry, medium plus acidity, spiny structure, medium alcohol, with new flavours of very ripe Golden Delicious apples, light toast, fresh and elegant, now until 2019+
Served preferably decanted at 12 degrees celsius with a Pan seared diver scallops, chorizo dust, cos lettuce and Piperade sauce
Almenkerk Wine Estate Elgin Sauvignon Blanc 2010 85 Points
Almenkerk Wine Estate Elgin Sauvignon Blanc 2010 85 Points
Clear, day bright, pale straw with slight coppery reflection, no evidence of gas or sediment.
Clean, medium plus intensity with notes of ripe goosberries, passion fruit flower, kiwi and floral talc, no wood.
Dry with medium acidity, medium plus alcohol, new flavours of green lime, fleshy and ripe texture, tad warming, but well balanced, minerally driven, need time for all component to integrate, perhaps in another 12 month, very serious and smart wine, from Autumn 2012 until 2018, could warrant higher rating once settle.
Clear, day bright, pale straw with slight coppery reflection, no evidence of gas or sediment.
Clean, medium plus intensity with notes of ripe goosberries, passion fruit flower, kiwi and floral talc, no wood.
Dry with medium acidity, medium plus alcohol, new flavours of green lime, fleshy and ripe texture, tad warming, but well balanced, minerally driven, need time for all component to integrate, perhaps in another 12 month, very serious and smart wine, from Autumn 2012 until 2018, could warrant higher rating once settle.
Almenkerk Wine Estate Elgin Sauvignon Blanc 2010 85 Points
Almenkerk Wine Estate Elgin Sauvignon Blanc 2010 85 Points
Clear, day bright, pale straw with slight coppery reflection, no evidence of gas or sediment.
Clean, medium plus intensity with notes of ripe goosberries, passion fruit flower, kiwi and floral talc, no wood.
Dry with medium acidity, medium plus alcohol, new flavours of green lime, fleshy and ripe texture, tad warming, but well balanced, minerally driven, need time for all component to integrate, perhaps in another 12 month, very serious and smart wine, from Autumn 2012 until 2018, could warrant higher rating once settle.
Clear, day bright, pale straw with slight coppery reflection, no evidence of gas or sediment.
Clean, medium plus intensity with notes of ripe goosberries, passion fruit flower, kiwi and floral talc, no wood.
Dry with medium acidity, medium plus alcohol, new flavours of green lime, fleshy and ripe texture, tad warming, but well balanced, minerally driven, need time for all component to integrate, perhaps in another 12 month, very serious and smart wine, from Autumn 2012 until 2018, could warrant higher rating once settle.
Winter's Drift Elgin Chardonnay 2010 80 Points
Winter's Drift Elgin Chardonnay 2010 80 Points
Clear, day bright, pale straw with slight green reflections, medium concentration, medium viscosity, no evidence of gas or sediment.
Clean, medium intensity with notes of ripe pears, lime, white grape fruit segment, no minerality, delicately wooded.
Dry, low plus acidity, medium alcohol with just ripe pears note follows through, green lime, some phenolic astringency on aftertaste, otherwise a good glass of Chardonnay for now until 2015
Will make a very good aperiitf or served with light seafood canapes.
Clear, day bright, pale straw with slight green reflections, medium concentration, medium viscosity, no evidence of gas or sediment.
Clean, medium intensity with notes of ripe pears, lime, white grape fruit segment, no minerality, delicately wooded.
Dry, low plus acidity, medium alcohol with just ripe pears note follows through, green lime, some phenolic astringency on aftertaste, otherwise a good glass of Chardonnay for now until 2015
Will make a very good aperiitf or served with light seafood canapes.
Winter's Drift Elgin Valley Rose 2010 81+ Points
Winter's Drift Elgin Valley Rose 2010 81+ Points
Clear, salmon hue, perfect colour for a Rose!, medium concentration, medium viscosity, no evidence of gas or sediment.
Clean, medium plus intensity with cherry bon bon and bubble gum note, ripe cherries abounds, plums with other delicate red fruits, complex aromatic for a rose.
Dry, low plus acidity, low alcohol with new flavours of cranberry, light and elegant, medium complexity and lenght, perfect at lunchtime, slight "sugary" aftertaste, now until 2014
Served at 8 degrees celsius will be perfect with any Mediterranean inspired salad or light dishes, or a grilled trout.
Clear, salmon hue, perfect colour for a Rose!, medium concentration, medium viscosity, no evidence of gas or sediment.
Clean, medium plus intensity with cherry bon bon and bubble gum note, ripe cherries abounds, plums with other delicate red fruits, complex aromatic for a rose.
Dry, low plus acidity, low alcohol with new flavours of cranberry, light and elegant, medium complexity and lenght, perfect at lunchtime, slight "sugary" aftertaste, now until 2014
Served at 8 degrees celsius will be perfect with any Mediterranean inspired salad or light dishes, or a grilled trout.
Winter's Drift Elgin Sauvignon Blanc 2010 82+ Points
Winter's Drift Elgin Sauvignon Blanc 2010 82+ Points
Clear, day bright, pale straw, low plus concentration, medium viscosity, no evidence of gas or sediment.
Clean, low plus to medium intensity with grassy herbaceous note, green peppercorn and green pea note, hints of white pebbles minerality, no wood.
Dry, low plus acidity!, medium plus alcohol with new flavouyrs of salty lime and green gage, medium complexity and medium lenght, now until 2014
Will make a good aperitif
Clear, day bright, pale straw, low plus concentration, medium viscosity, no evidence of gas or sediment.
Clean, low plus to medium intensity with grassy herbaceous note, green peppercorn and green pea note, hints of white pebbles minerality, no wood.
Dry, low plus acidity!, medium plus alcohol with new flavouyrs of salty lime and green gage, medium complexity and medium lenght, now until 2014
Will make a good aperitif
Thelema Sutherland Elgin Riesling 2008 86+ Points
Thelema Sutherland Elgin Riesling 2008 86+ Points
Clear, pale straw with green refelction, medium concentrationand medium viscosity, no evidence of gas or sediment.
Clean, high intensity note of lime, green pineapple, and red apples, white clay / quartz minerality, no wood with hints of terpene character, complex and layered.
Dry to off dry, sugar very well concealed by bright acidity, medium plus acidity, medium plus alcohol, new flavours of crunchy gooseberry and green apples, medium plus lenght and medium plus concentration, now until 2019+
(knowing the track record of Thelema Stellenbosch Riesling, the Elgin one with higher acidity, should in most probability, if cellared under the right condition, last longer)
Served at 10 degrees celsius with a shredded roasted duck salad, cashew nuts, crunchy greens and roots vegetables, coriander and soy and sesame dressing.
Clear, pale straw with green refelction, medium concentrationand medium viscosity, no evidence of gas or sediment.
Clean, high intensity note of lime, green pineapple, and red apples, white clay / quartz minerality, no wood with hints of terpene character, complex and layered.
Dry to off dry, sugar very well concealed by bright acidity, medium plus acidity, medium plus alcohol, new flavours of crunchy gooseberry and green apples, medium plus lenght and medium plus concentration, now until 2019+
(knowing the track record of Thelema Stellenbosch Riesling, the Elgin one with higher acidity, should in most probability, if cellared under the right condition, last longer)
Served at 10 degrees celsius with a shredded roasted duck salad, cashew nuts, crunchy greens and roots vegetables, coriander and soy and sesame dressing.
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Rawbones Burchers Block Elgin Merlot & Cabernet Franc 2008 85 Points
Rawbones Burchers Block Elgin Merlot & Cabernet Franc 2008 85 Points
Clear, bright dark cherry red with slight blueberry/purple rim, medium plus viscosity and high concentration, almost impenetrable colour in the center.
Clean, high intensity of ripe plums, blueberries, cassis, leafy floral note, but not herbaceaous, red pepper, earthy loamy note, spicy oak with cedar note, tobacco, delicate balance of French oak.
Dry with some roundness, probably around 3.5 Residual Sugar!, medium acidity, low tannin, medium plus alcohol, new flavours of plum jam and cassis liqueur, some toasty element, well balance with lovely fruit concentration, perfectly ripe, medium lenght and complexity.
Impressive value at less than R 50 trade price, overdelivers in quality over so many boring Cape Bordeaux style blends out there at 3 times the price, 100 % Elgin fruit, at least here a sense of place!
Oak Valley have proved itself as one of South Africa's new wave Bordeaux inspired red blend with their flagship, The Oak Valley Blend, consistently gaining international recognition at less than one third the price of a good Cru Bourgeois!
This is a testament that it is possible to make site or ward specific wine at a very good price, without sacrificing quality, hopefully this will make the mega corporation / wineries realise that multi region/district/ward blends is certainly feasible!
If poured under South African climatic condition, served at 13 degrees Celsius perfect with a chicken stir fried egg noodles, garlic chives, carrot juliennes, cabbage, green beans, and Kikkoman soya sauce.
Now until 2017 if cellared under optimum conditions
Clear, bright dark cherry red with slight blueberry/purple rim, medium plus viscosity and high concentration, almost impenetrable colour in the center.
Clean, high intensity of ripe plums, blueberries, cassis, leafy floral note, but not herbaceaous, red pepper, earthy loamy note, spicy oak with cedar note, tobacco, delicate balance of French oak.
Dry with some roundness, probably around 3.5 Residual Sugar!, medium acidity, low tannin, medium plus alcohol, new flavours of plum jam and cassis liqueur, some toasty element, well balance with lovely fruit concentration, perfectly ripe, medium lenght and complexity.
Impressive value at less than R 50 trade price, overdelivers in quality over so many boring Cape Bordeaux style blends out there at 3 times the price, 100 % Elgin fruit, at least here a sense of place!
Oak Valley have proved itself as one of South Africa's new wave Bordeaux inspired red blend with their flagship, The Oak Valley Blend, consistently gaining international recognition at less than one third the price of a good Cru Bourgeois!
This is a testament that it is possible to make site or ward specific wine at a very good price, without sacrificing quality, hopefully this will make the mega corporation / wineries realise that multi region/district/ward blends is certainly feasible!
If poured under South African climatic condition, served at 13 degrees Celsius perfect with a chicken stir fried egg noodles, garlic chives, carrot juliennes, cabbage, green beans, and Kikkoman soya sauce.
Now until 2017 if cellared under optimum conditions
Elgin Valley Vineyards Elgin Sauvignon Blanc 2009 83+ Points
Elgin Valley Vineyards Elgin Sauvignon Blanc 2009 83+ Points
Clear, day bright, pale with slight green tinge / yellow reflection, medium concentration, medium viscosity, no evidence of gas.
Clean, medium plus intensity, gooseberries, kiwi, tropical limes, grassy and peppery with hints of crushed blackcurrants leaf, clay/quartz mineral evident, briny, no oak, however alcohol slightly overpowering and out of sync (13.5 ABV)
Dry, medium acidity, medium plus alcohol, new flavours of greengage, green peas/snappeas, pithy grapefruit skin, medium complexity, fair lenght, however alcohol not fully integrated, now until 2016.
Clear, day bright, pale with slight green tinge / yellow reflection, medium concentration, medium viscosity, no evidence of gas.
Clean, medium plus intensity, gooseberries, kiwi, tropical limes, grassy and peppery with hints of crushed blackcurrants leaf, clay/quartz mineral evident, briny, no oak, however alcohol slightly overpowering and out of sync (13.5 ABV)
Dry, medium acidity, medium plus alcohol, new flavours of greengage, green peas/snappeas, pithy grapefruit skin, medium complexity, fair lenght, however alcohol not fully integrated, now until 2016.
Rawbones The Wishbone Elgin Sauvignon Blanc 2010 82 Points
Rawbones The Wishbone Elgin Sauvignon Blanc 2010 82 Points
Clear, bright, pale straw with yellow reflections!, low concentration with medium viscosity, no evidence of gas
Clean with medium plus intensity, ripe guava note! green kiwi, crunchy green peas, medley of tropical fruit, hints of white pebbly minerals, delicate white flowers such as white lily, no wood, the aromatics are actually closer to an Entre Deux Mers rather than a bright New World Sauvignon
Dry, medium plus acidity, medium plus alcohol, new flavours of just ripe lychees, fleshy, clean and pure with medium lenght and complexity, now until 2015
Clear, bright, pale straw with yellow reflections!, low concentration with medium viscosity, no evidence of gas
Clean with medium plus intensity, ripe guava note! green kiwi, crunchy green peas, medley of tropical fruit, hints of white pebbly minerals, delicate white flowers such as white lily, no wood, the aromatics are actually closer to an Entre Deux Mers rather than a bright New World Sauvignon
Dry, medium plus acidity, medium plus alcohol, new flavours of just ripe lychees, fleshy, clean and pure with medium lenght and complexity, now until 2015
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Elgin Wine Guild 2011 - Sandton Sun
Elgin Wine Guild 2011 - Sandton Sun
Monday 7th & Tuesday 8th of February shows the Elgin Wine Guild showcasing their wines to the Johannesburg public, Trade and Key reatil wine buyers, what was interesting is the fact it was the first wine "festival" of 2011 in Gauteng with close to 400 visitors visiting the 13 winery stands, namely Almenkerk, Arumdale Vineyards, Elgin Valley Vineyards, Elgin Vintners, Iona, Neil Ellis, Oak Valley, Paul Cluver Estate, Ross Gower, Shannon Vineyards, South Hills, Thelema and Winters Drift pouring their best drops at the Sandton Sun Hotel.
Monday 7th & Tuesday 8th of February shows the Elgin Wine Guild showcasing their wines to the Johannesburg public, Trade and Key reatil wine buyers, what was interesting is the fact it was the first wine "festival" of 2011 in Gauteng with close to 400 visitors visiting the 13 winery stands, namely Almenkerk, Arumdale Vineyards, Elgin Valley Vineyards, Elgin Vintners, Iona, Neil Ellis, Oak Valley, Paul Cluver Estate, Ross Gower, Shannon Vineyards, South Hills, Thelema and Winters Drift pouring their best drops at the Sandton Sun Hotel.
Monday, February 7, 2011
Rupert & Rothschild Western Cape Baron Edmond 2000 83 Points
Rupert & Rothschild Western Cape Baron Edmond 2000 83 Points
Clear, bright, deep ruby with brown rim, medium plus concentration and medium viscosity, no evidence of gas or sediment.
Clean, tertiary note evident, macerated cherries in kirsch, blackcurrant, earthy gamey touch, leathery complexity, small French oak evident.
Dry, medium alcohol, medium tannin, new flavours of earthy and dark mushroom note follows through, medium acidity, elegant and savory notes of black olives.
26 months in 100 % New French oak, inclusion of Darling fruit, a blend of 10 % Cabernet Franc, 30 % Merlot and 60 % Cabernet Sauvignon, to be enjoyed now until 2015
Clear, bright, deep ruby with brown rim, medium plus concentration and medium viscosity, no evidence of gas or sediment.
Clean, tertiary note evident, macerated cherries in kirsch, blackcurrant, earthy gamey touch, leathery complexity, small French oak evident.
Dry, medium alcohol, medium tannin, new flavours of earthy and dark mushroom note follows through, medium acidity, elegant and savory notes of black olives.
26 months in 100 % New French oak, inclusion of Darling fruit, a blend of 10 % Cabernet Franc, 30 % Merlot and 60 % Cabernet Sauvignon, to be enjoyed now until 2015
Rupert & Rothschild Western Cape Baron Edmond 1999 83+ Points
Rupert & Rothschild Western Cape Baron Edmond 1999 83+ Points
Clear, bright, garnet hue, medium plus concentration, medium viscosity, no evidence of gas or sediment.
Clean, showing maturity with tertiary notes of preserved red berries in spirits, cassis and blackcurrant earthy well supported by the cedar wood and tobacco note, small french oak evident, dark mushroom and some farmyardy note.
Dry, medium alcohol, medium plus tannin, medium acidity, earthy notes, medium plus complexity and lenght, ripe texture with new flavours of blackcurrant jam, now until 2015
A Cabernet Sauvignon (75%) and Merlot (25%) blend, with a high percentage of Helderberg Stellenbosch fruit.
Clear, bright, garnet hue, medium plus concentration, medium viscosity, no evidence of gas or sediment.
Clean, showing maturity with tertiary notes of preserved red berries in spirits, cassis and blackcurrant earthy well supported by the cedar wood and tobacco note, small french oak evident, dark mushroom and some farmyardy note.
Dry, medium alcohol, medium plus tannin, medium acidity, earthy notes, medium plus complexity and lenght, ripe texture with new flavours of blackcurrant jam, now until 2015
A Cabernet Sauvignon (75%) and Merlot (25%) blend, with a high percentage of Helderberg Stellenbosch fruit.
Saturday, February 5, 2011
2003 Morgenster Estate Stellenbosch 89 Points
2003 Morgenster Estate Stellenbosch 89 Points
Complex and fragrant Cabernet Sauvignon and Franc, well meshed.
Licorice, earth and ripe blackcurrant, crushed rocks minerality, tight unrevealing on palate at present, but has lots of potential, ripe fruit lurking behind ripe tannin, still integrating, hints of tar, tobacco and lead pencil. Refinement, elegance and freshness. Great food wine. Drink from 2010, until 2015
Complex and fragrant Cabernet Sauvignon and Franc, well meshed.
Licorice, earth and ripe blackcurrant, crushed rocks minerality, tight unrevealing on palate at present, but has lots of potential, ripe fruit lurking behind ripe tannin, still integrating, hints of tar, tobacco and lead pencil. Refinement, elegance and freshness. Great food wine. Drink from 2010, until 2015
Jam Jar Western Cape Sweet Shiraz 2009
Jam Jar Western Cape Sweet Shiraz 2009
What is great about Jam Jar is that it is an honest Shiraz that says it is sweet and meet the need and requirement of an emerging wine clientele who only swear by sweet wine.
Not only is a sweet wine a great introduction to the wine world as it is well documented that many nation across the world started their wine initiation with something that have a rather high residual sugar, to buffer the wrongly perceived ideas that dry red or white wine are tart and hence their choice of other alcoholic beverages besides wines.
With only 12.5 ABV, this is a fresh technically sound Shiraz packed with ripe fruit, such as blueberries, raspberries and spicy cloves, best served slightly chilled, will be perfect with any spicy stews, sticky honeyed BBQ ribs, chocolate sauce or base dessert or simply on it's own for an uncomplicated glass of juicy and fruity shiraz.
Southern Sun is the first hotel group in South Africa to list Jam Jar Sweet Shiraz 2009
What is great about Jam Jar is that it is an honest Shiraz that says it is sweet and meet the need and requirement of an emerging wine clientele who only swear by sweet wine.
Not only is a sweet wine a great introduction to the wine world as it is well documented that many nation across the world started their wine initiation with something that have a rather high residual sugar, to buffer the wrongly perceived ideas that dry red or white wine are tart and hence their choice of other alcoholic beverages besides wines.
With only 12.5 ABV, this is a fresh technically sound Shiraz packed with ripe fruit, such as blueberries, raspberries and spicy cloves, best served slightly chilled, will be perfect with any spicy stews, sticky honeyed BBQ ribs, chocolate sauce or base dessert or simply on it's own for an uncomplicated glass of juicy and fruity shiraz.
Southern Sun is the first hotel group in South Africa to list Jam Jar Sweet Shiraz 2009
Perdeberg Winery Paarl Chardonnay - Viognier Reserve 2010 84+ Points
Perdeberg Winery Paarl Chardonnay - Viognier Reserve 2010 84+ Points
Clear, day bright, pale gold with yellow / green reflection, medium concentration, medium plus viscosity, evidence of gas, no sediment.
Clean, high intensity with notes of ripe cling peaches, apricot, ripe citrus, Victoria pineapple, pomelo, seductive floral note of jasmin, lavender, honeysuckle, multilayered, vanilla oak add another layer of complexity without being over bearing, loads of personality for such an unusual blend, kind of the ripest of Burgundy and Rhone valley, clever!
Dry to off dry, high acidity unusual for 2 varietal, especially the Viognier, when it's grown in warm to hot regions, such as Paarl, acidification is evident here, but deftly managed, ripe (14.5 ABV), high alcohol with new flavours of juicu nectarines and nectacots, cheesecake, honeyed creamy richness, medium plus lenght and medium plus complexity, now until 2016.
Served at 12 degrees celsius for full aromatic expression, paired with creamy butter beans , hickory ham, fresh celery soup
Clear, day bright, pale gold with yellow / green reflection, medium concentration, medium plus viscosity, evidence of gas, no sediment.
Clean, high intensity with notes of ripe cling peaches, apricot, ripe citrus, Victoria pineapple, pomelo, seductive floral note of jasmin, lavender, honeysuckle, multilayered, vanilla oak add another layer of complexity without being over bearing, loads of personality for such an unusual blend, kind of the ripest of Burgundy and Rhone valley, clever!
Dry to off dry, high acidity unusual for 2 varietal, especially the Viognier, when it's grown in warm to hot regions, such as Paarl, acidification is evident here, but deftly managed, ripe (14.5 ABV), high alcohol with new flavours of juicu nectarines and nectacots, cheesecake, honeyed creamy richness, medium plus lenght and medium plus complexity, now until 2016.
Served at 12 degrees celsius for full aromatic expression, paired with creamy butter beans , hickory ham, fresh celery soup
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
Bon Cap Organic Eilandia Viognier 2009 77+ Points
Bon Cap Organic Eilandia Viognier 2009 77+ Points
Clear, day bright, pale gold, medium plus concentration and medium plus viscosity, no evidence of gas or sediment.
Clean, medium plus intensity brilliant peach, yoghurt, apricot and dusty oak somewhat not integrated, jasmin, seductive aromatics, but palate touch lean and one dimensional, almost tart, now until 2013
Clear, day bright, pale gold, medium plus concentration and medium plus viscosity, no evidence of gas or sediment.
Clean, medium plus intensity brilliant peach, yoghurt, apricot and dusty oak somewhat not integrated, jasmin, seductive aromatics, but palate touch lean and one dimensional, almost tart, now until 2013
2009 Uva Mira Stellenbosch Sauvignon Blanc 85+-87+ Points
2009 Uva Mira Stellenbosch Sauvignon Blanc 85+-87+ Points
Ripe, pungent Sauvignon Blanc character, multilayered, with tropical gooseberry, dusty sandy minerality, fresh green guava skin, palate is broad with fine texture, zesty and vibrant acidity well encased with juicy fruit, fine lenght and complexity, now until 2015
Ripe, pungent Sauvignon Blanc character, multilayered, with tropical gooseberry, dusty sandy minerality, fresh green guava skin, palate is broad with fine texture, zesty and vibrant acidity well encased with juicy fruit, fine lenght and complexity, now until 2015
Backsberg Babylonstoren Paarl Viognier 2006 84 pt
Backsberg Babylonstoren Paarl Viognier 2006 84 point
Clear, day bright, pale gold with medium plus concentration and high viscosity, no evidence of gas or sediment.
Clean, medium intensity with baked / grilled stone fruit and terpenes note, slightly atypical of a Viognier, juicy and mouth filling, richly textured,boosted by some Residual Sugar, complex and layered, very well made, over deliver on palate, nutty complexity, however slight touch of almond bitterness/phenolic distract, now until 2015
Clear, day bright, pale gold with medium plus concentration and high viscosity, no evidence of gas or sediment.
Clean, medium intensity with baked / grilled stone fruit and terpenes note, slightly atypical of a Viognier, juicy and mouth filling, richly textured,boosted by some Residual Sugar, complex and layered, very well made, over deliver on palate, nutty complexity, however slight touch of almond bitterness/phenolic distract, now until 2015
Haut Espoir Gentle Giant Coastal Region blend 2006 70+ pt
Haut Espoir Gentle Giant Coastal Region blend 2006 70+ pt
Stewed red fruits, touch reductive, tamarind note, oaky and sappy, herbaceaous combined with overipe fruit, kind of disjointed style, blend not integrated, undisclosed components, now until 2013
Stewed red fruits, touch reductive, tamarind note, oaky and sappy, herbaceaous combined with overipe fruit, kind of disjointed style, blend not integrated, undisclosed components, now until 2013
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