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,