Avontuur Estate, the Helderberg based Wine & Thoroughbred Stud recently released five new wines in their horse-themed Premiere range, all created by winemaker Jan van Rooyen.
From the late eighties the range consisted of six wines, which are only released if the winemaker is happy with the quality of the particular vintage. This has sometimes led to fluctuating stock levels, but has added to the exclusivity as well. For the first time in many years, the full range is now available and it consists of:
Sarabande Sauvignon Blanc Reserve 2013: Named after one of the top mares in the Stud, and a winner of quite a few well-known races in her day, this wine has some wood treatment to add complexity which also helps with the food friendliness. New Release. Cellar Door Price: R104
Luna de Miel Chardonnay Reserve 2010: Named after an Argentinian mare bought by Avontuur in the early days of the Stud, and translated as “honeymoon”, this wood-fermented Chardonnay is one of the stalwarts of the range. Released in 2012. Cellar Door Price: R115
Minelli Pinot Noir Reserve 2010: An attractive fruit-driven Pinot Noir which is the perfect way to learn to love “burgundy” as it’s not typically earthy and doesn’t feature the farmyard aroma’s which put many new Pinot Noir drinkers off. Named after one of the Estate’s most prolific mares, who’s progeny are racing all over the world. New Release. Cellar Door Price: R159
Dominion Royale Shiraz Reserve 2011: Elegant, fruity Shiraz with white Pepper and soft spiciness adding to the enjoyment. Named after the Estate’s previous stallion, who for more than 20 years, drove the farm’s stud business. New Release. Cellar Door Price: R138
Baccarat 2009: Merlot-driven Bordeaux-style blend with Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc added. Named after one of the first seriously good horses bred by the farm. The Estate’s flagship wine. New Release. Cellar Door Price: R185
Above Royalty Liqueur Wine 2009: A stylistic change from the previous Noble Late Harvest under the label, this Shiraz/Pinotage blend is fortified with the Estate’s own pot-stilled brandy and is perfect as an after-dinner drink or cooled as an aperitif. Named after one of the Taberer family’s horses from their years in Zimbabwe. New Release. Cellar Door Price: R95
The wines are all available from the Estate tasting room which is open daily, in selected Spar and Tops at Spar stores, as well as in restaurants country-wide.
The Estate is also currently running the Backing the Best campaign with these wines, which links in with the annual Avontuur Estate Cape Fillies Guineas Gr 1 race day on Saturday, 7 December at Kenilworth.
For more information, visit www.avontuurestate.co.za or www.backingthebest.co.za
