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Thursday, October 31, 2013

AVONTUUR RELEASES FIVE NEW PREMIERE RANGE WINES



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

Cuvée puts a spin on traditional summer lunch favourites


Strawberries and cream vanilla panna cotta with dehydrated strawberries, white chocolate ice cream and shortbread

Take a culinary road trip down memory lane and taste the essence of the Cape's flavours at Cuvée restaurant amidst the Simonsig vineyards, with their new summer light lunch and Gastronomic menus.

Line fish with tempura mussels, coconut rice balls, kachumber and laksa sauce

Adding some spice to locally sourced ingredients, chef Lucas Carstens has designed a brand new lunch menu combining traditional South African favourites with a quirky flavour twist. The new line-up includes yester-year favourites from Cape fishcakes with homemade masala mayo and ox tongue dressed with traditional sweet mustard sauce to juicy aged rib eye steak with peach mampoer butter and crispy onions. In true South African style, Cuvée guests can savour lamb ribs braaied over real coals, guaranteed to be a winner with foreign guests looking for traditional home turf food.

Prawn, papaya and avocado salad with chilli and ginger

Lucas who enjoys the lamb ribs the most says: “I love experimenting in the kitchen and with access to beautiful, seasonal ingredients, and with the strong focus on local, traditional dishes in our new light summer menu, my team and I want to showcase the best of Cape food and introduce our guests our rich food heritage,”

Gebraaide lamsribbetjie with rosemary and preserved lemon

In addition to the new light menu, Lucas has also revamped his a la carte Gastronomic Menu. Promising a true Simonsig experience some of the seasonal newcomers on the menu include new taste sensations such as decadent carrot risotto with a drizzle of white chocolate sauce, seared home farmed trout, rabbit and pancetta roulade and beef fillet with oxtail truffles.

“In addition to relying on local produce as far as we can in all our dishes, we aim to reduce our carbon footprint even further by making use of our own Simonsig home farmed trout” adds Lucas.

On the Cuvée terrace and wooden deck, guests can enjoy al fresco indulgences whilst soaking up the breathtaking views of the Simonsberg and sip on the wines crafted from the surrounding vineyards.

Cuvée is open from Tuesday to Sunday between 12h00 - 15h00 and Wednesday, Friday and Saturday evenings from 19h00 - 22h00. Private evening functions and parties can be reserved in Simonsig’s stylish Van Niekerk Room.

For reservations or more information contact Cuvée restaurant at Tel: (021) 888 4932; send an email to cuvee@simonsig.co.za or visit www.cuveeatsimonsig.co.za

Simonsig Wine Estate is located outside Stellenbosch, on the Kromme Rhee road between the R44 and R304.

Thelema Mountain Vineyards Johannesburg Trade Tasting 2013



A recent trade tasting of the near complete range of Thelema Mountain Vineyard at 54 on Bath Hotel in Rosebank, Johannesburg, confirms it's status as one of South Africa's top wineries, consistently over the last 3 decades producing some of the finest Stellenbosch Chardonnay's, Sauvignon Blanc's and Cabernet Sauvignon's, however their Sutherland range from Elgin, should not be ignored either, especially the newly released rose and Pinot Noir.

Stock up on the high scoring wines, by the time they reached their maturity, if you can resist until then!, they will besides the impressive quality and complexity, derived from bottle maturation, they will look unconvincingly cheap and these prices are probably over the next 2 years will be the last time we will be seeing such bargain!



Thelema Mountain Vineyard Sutherland Sauvignon Blanc 2012 87 Points

Thelema Mountain Vineyard Merlot 2010 87 Points

Thelema Mountain Vineyard Sutherland Cabernet Sauvignon Petit Verdot 2009 88 Points

Thelema Mountain Vineyard Mountain Red 2011 89 Points

Thelema Mountain Vineyard Sutherland Syrah Grenache Noir  Rose 2013 89+ Points

Thelema Mountain Vineyard Shiraz 2010 90 Points

Thelema Mountain Vineyard Sutherland Syrah 2009 90 Points

Thelema Mountain Vineyard Sutherland Chardonnay 2011 91 Points

Thelema Mountain Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2009 91 Points

Thelema Mountain Vineyard Sutherland Pinot Noir 2011 91 Points

Thelema Mountain Vineyard Sutherland VR 2010 91+ Points

Thelema Mountain Vineyard Rabelais 2008 91+ Points

Thelema Mountain Vineyard Chardonnay 2012 92 Points

Thelema Mountain Vineyard Merlot Reserve 2010 92 Points

Thelema Mountain Vineyard Vin de Hel 2011 92 Points

Thelema Mountain Vineyard Riesling 2011 92+ Points

Thelema Mountain Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc 2013 92+ Points

Thelema Mountain Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon The Mint 2010 93 Points

Thelema Mountain Vineyard Riesling Noble Late 2009  93 Points


Thelema Mountain Vineyard Riesling Noble Late 2009 93 Points



Fantastic botrytis note, impressive purity with terpene complexity, chiselled, bright freshness, concentrated, may keep forever?

Alcohol: perfect | 10.5 % abv

Origin: Stellenbosch

Notes: citrus jam | orange | pineapples | honey

Ideal drinking occasions: romantic dinner

Serve with: foie gras

Drink: now until 2040

Thelema Mountain Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon The Mint 2010 93 Points



Always a fantastic offerings,this bold Cabernet showing ripe dark red fruits with a delicate peppery and herbaceaous character, not green, embryonic, will be best revisited around 2018, stock up!

Alcohol: high | 14 % abv

Origin: Stellenbosch

Notes: cassis | blackcurrant | mint | graphite | cedar

Ideal drinking occasions: winter time

Serve with: sticky ribs

Drink: now until 2030

Thelema Mountain Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc 2013 92+ Points



One of the stars offerings of 2013 vintage, and Stellenbosch most consistent top notch Sauvignon, showy, captivating and layered, perfect ripeness 

Alcohol: moderate plus| 13.5 % abv

Origin: Stellenbosch

Notes: passion fruit | gooseberries | kiwi | cream soda | sherbet

Ideal drinking occasions: anytime

Serve with: cheese board

Drink: now until 2016+

Thelema Mountain Vineyard Riesling 2011 92+ Points



Another classic from this well respected winery and one of South Africa's longest lived Riesling, showing petrolly note already, broad texture, juicy, citric lemony freshness, pin point residual sugar

Alcohol: perfect | 12 % abv

Origin: Stellenbosch

Notes: lemon | orange | grapefruit | pineapples | almonds

Ideal drinking occasions: anytime

Serve with: cheese grillers

Drink: now until 2022+

Thelema Mountain Vineyard Vin de Hel 2011 92 Points



Muscat Noble Late Harvest, impressive purity, intense, textbook, exceptionally well priced

Alcohol: ideal| 12.5 % abv

Origin: Stellenbosch

Notes: turkish delight | rose | nutty | marmelade

Ideal drinking occasions: end of meal

Serve with: creme brulee

Drink: now until 2035

Thelema Mountain Vineyard Merlot Reserve 2010 92 Points



Better focus than generic offering, yet still very ripe and rich, fragrant, juicy, intense mouthfeels, savory.

Alcohol: very high | 14.5 % abv

Origin: Stellenbosch

Notes: blackberry | plums | olive | earthy | tobacco

Ideal drinking occasions: winter time

Serve with: rib eye steak

Drink: now until 2024

Thelema Mountain Vineyard Chardonnay 2012 92 Points



Classic Stellenbosch barrel fermented and matured Chardonnay, style have not changed much as far as I can recall from my hotel school student's days serving copious amount of the 1995 / 1996 at Le Touessrok hotel, was one of the best selling Cape Chardonnay's on the wine lists, if one thing have change for the good is recent vintages is less creamy and brighter freshness, zesty, textured, nevertheless cannot go wrong with this one!

Alcohol: moderate| 13 % abv

Origin: Stellenbosch

Notes: lemon | citrus | melon | peach | nutty

Ideal drinking occasions: summer

Serve with: grilled white fish

Drink: now until 2022+

Thelema Mountain Vineyard Rabelais 2008 91+ Points



Cabernet Sauvignon driven blend (79%) with 12% Petit Verdot and 9% Merlot, impressive purity, plush and savoury, cedar wood complexity on farewell.

Alcohol: very high | 14.5 % abv

Origin: Stellenbosch

Notes: blackcurrant | olive | graphite | spicy | peppery

Ideal drinking occasions: winter time

Serve with: lamb cutlet

Drink: now until 2025

Thelema Mountain Vineyard Sutherland VR 2010 91+ Points



Expressive with matchstick complexity, textured, fresh and lively, excellent purity, persistent lenght, rich.

Alcohol: high | 14 % abv

Origin: Elgin

Notes: pears | citrus | peach | nutty | honey

Ideal drinking occasions: winter  / autumn

Serve with: duck rillettes

Drink: now until 2017

Thelema Mountain Vineyard Sutherland Pinot Noir 2011 91 Points



With each new releases, their Pinot Noir just get better and better, lifted, bright with savory texture, full bodied on finish though

Alcohol: high | 14 % abv

Origin: Elgin

Notes: cranberry | raspberry | spicy | tea leaf

Ideal drinking occasions: winter time

Serve with: grilled yellowtail

Drink: now until 2019

Thelema Mountain Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2009 91 Points



One of South Africa's classic Cabernet Sauvignon offerings, usually best from 6 years after vintage, expressive and showing all the hallmarks of the great 2009 vintage.

Alcohol: high | 14 % abv

Origin: Stellenbosch

Notes: cassis | blackcurrant | eucalyptus | graphite

Ideal drinking occasions: winter time

Serve with: lamb navarin

Drink: now until 2025+

Thelema Mountain Vineyard Sutherland Chardonnay 2011 91 Points



Fragrant with burnt citrus note, juicy, sweet, rich farewell

Alcohol: moderate plus | 13.5 % abv

Origin: Elgin

Notes: lemon | tangerine | orange | nutty | honey

Ideal drinking occasions: summer

Serve with: crumbed veal

Drink: now until 2019+

Thelema Mountain Vineyard Sutherland Syrah 2009 90 Points



Ripe, juicy and plush offerings with engaging sappy freshness

Alcohol: high | 14 % abv

Origin: Elgin

Notes: plums | molasses | olive | graphite | balsamic

Ideal drinking occasions: winter time

Serve with: pork sausages

Drink: now until 2022

Thelema Mountain Vineyard Shiraz 2010 90 Points



Fine crossed between Northern Rhone and New World opulence, tightly structured, delicate tannins, with savory note, more Syrah than Shiraz, sappy freshness.

Alcohol: very high | 14.5 % abv

Origin: Stellenbosch

Notes: plums | peppery | gamey | spicy| herbal

Ideal drinking occasions: winter time

Serve with: pepper steak

Drink: now until 2022

Thelema Mountain Vineyard Sutherland Syrah Grenache Noir Rose 2013 89+ Points



This has to be one of the most exciting rose of 2013, expressive and sherbetty freshness, super yummy, make it one of your top summer wine!, perfect in a picnic basket. 
72% Shiraz & 28% Grenache Noir

Alcohol: moderate| 13 % abv

Origin: Elgin

Notes: candy floss | guava | strawberries

Ideal drinking occasions: anytime

Serve with: smoked salmon trout

Drink: now until 2014+

Thelema Mountain Vineyard Mountain Red 2011 89 Points



Judicious blend of 7 varieties with near equal part of Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz peppered with Grenache Noir, Petit Verdot, Merlot and Cabernet Franc, expressive, perfect for cooler days sipping.

Alcohol: very high | 14.5 % abv

Origin: Western Cape

Notes: cassis | plums | mocha | chocolate| toast

Ideal drinking occasions: winter time

Serve with: prego rolls

Drink: now until 2019

Thelema Sutherland Cabernet Sauvignon Petit Verdot 2009 88 Points



Quite reductive initially, this ripe and spicy offerings, reveals plush and broad mouth feels, long lenght, best given some aeration of around 45 minutes prior to serving!

Alcohol: high| 14 % abv

Origin: Elgin

Notes: blackberry | plums | spicy | balsamic

Ideal drinking occasions: winter time

Serve with: steam short ribs with fermented black beans

Drink: now until 2019

Thelema Mountain Vineyard Merlot 2010 87 Points



Super ripe and full bodied, plush offerings, textured, tight, fresh farewell

Alcohol: irresponsibly very high | 15 % abv

Origin: Stellenbosch

Notes: plums | soapy | graphite | spicy

Ideal drinking occasions: winter time

Serve with: tomato quiche

Drink: now until 2016

Thelema Mountain Vineyard Sutherland Sauvignon Blanc 2012 87 Points



Pouilly Fume restraint, kind of unshowy offerings, yet full textured

Alcohol: high | 14 % abv

Origin: Elgin

Notes: lime | flowers | pepper | spicy | almonds

Ideal drinking occasions: anytime

Serve with: cos lettuce and bacon salad

Drink: now

Wednesday, October 30, 2013

Oak Valley Rose 2012 85 Points



Summery offerings with table friendly alcohol level, perfect to wash down lazy sunday lunches!

Alcohol: ideal | 12.5 % abv

Origin: Elgin

Notes: strawberries | cherries | spicy

Ideal drinking occasions: anytime

Serve with: ceasar salad

Drink: now

Black Elephant Vintners | Franschhoek



Black Elephant Vintners is a partnership between Kevin Swart, Raymond Ndlovu and winemaker Jacques Wentzel.

Franschhoek have a handful of excellent established wineries and one of my latest discoveries has been Black Elephant Vintners, a company producing labels such as Amistad,  La Petite Vigne, The Back Roads Die Perdeskoen, Timothy White, and Two Dogs, A Peacock & A Horse.

I like the fact that they showcase the terroir of Franschhoek, as such for one exception, is Back Roads label, hence the name, all wines produced are under the "Wine of Origin Franschhoek". They should be applauded for this daring decision and efforts, it's all in the dirt!

They are wines of character, with a sense of place and integrity, palpable across the range, showcasing purity and elegance over power and oak, they are succulent, lively with bright acidity, table friendly range, will make  any gathering with friends a highlight, seek them out, they are fantastic!

La Petite Vigne Deep Red Rose 2013 85 Points

Timothy White The Sauvignon Blanc 2013 89+ Points

Two Dogs, a Peacock & a Horse Sauvignon Blanc 2013 90 Points

Timothy White The Viognier 2012 91+ Points

The Back Roads Die Perdeskoen Pinotage 2012 93 Points

Amistad Syrah 2012 94 Points


SIP ON DU TOITSKLOOF CHENIN BLANC THIS SUMMER



The versatility of Chenin blanc allows you to build an entire evening around it and the 2013 Du Toitskloof Chenin Blanc is the perfect wine to enjoy in celebrating the arrival of warmer weather. Start with a chilled glass enjoyed on its own or with cured meats and fresh bread.

At the dinner table share the wine with barbecued chicken, pan-fried duck breast, spicy Indian or Asian curries or smoked salmon and move right into dessert with a selection of soft, creamy cheeses.

The wine erupts with flavours of apple, pear, pineapple and tropical fruit with a crisp mouth-feel, a result of the mixture of green and ripe pickings selected during harvest.

Du Toitskloof Wines is known for its exceptional quality wines at affordable prices and with the 2013 Chenin blanc retailing at R28 a bottle you have every reason to celebrate the changing of the seasons.

Wine industry snatches up Cape Winemakers Guild protégés


Heinrich Kulsen and Elmarie Botes

The impact of the Cape Winemakers Guild Protégé Programme on transformation in the wine industry is beginning to bear fruit with no less than four graduates in full time winemaking positions in just seven years.

Elmarie Botes, the latest Cape Winemakers Guild Protégé to complete her 3-year mentorship programme, has been appointed as assistant winemaker for Fleur du Cap at Die Bergkelder.

Just back from France where she and fellow Guild Protégé, Heinrich Kulsen, spent almost a month in the vineyards and cellars of famous French domaines as part of the Western Cape Burgundy Exchange Programme, Elmarie has already joined the winemaking team at Die Bergkelder.

Heinrich who still has a year to go before graduating from the Protégé Programme, will be swapping Villiera, where he has spent a year working with Guild Chairman Jeff Grier, with Hermanuspietersfontein and winemaker Bartho Eksteen.

Last year’s graduates, Tamsyn Jeftha and Sacha Claasen are both in full time positions as assistant winemakers at Hartenberg Estate and Asara Wines respectively, while Praisy Dlamini, the Guild’s first female protégé has moved from Die Bergkelder to the all-woman Zonnebloem winemaking team.

Elmarie and Heinrich, the first Protégés to take part in the Western Cape Burgundy Exchange Programme this year, both consider their experience priceless. Besides a 2-week stint at the Centre of Vocational Training and Agricultural Promotion (CFPPA) in Beaune, the wine capital of Burgundy, they visited various Premier Cru and Grand Cru parcels before working in the vineyards and cellars during harvest time at their designated domaines. Elmarie was seconded to Courgis in Chablis, whilst Heinrich worked in Premeaux.

Working with well-known Chablis winemaker, Thomas Pico, has had a profound effect on Elmarie, who fell in love with his winemaking philosophy: “It is about putting what nature gives you in a bottle. The winemaker is the smallest factor in producing the wine; it is mainly about your grapes and terroir.”
For Heinrich the experience, which opened his eyes to a different world, has been a revelation as a South African: “Although we are a fairly young wine producing country compared to Burgundy, I think we are evolving quickly and producing world class wines already.”

Sponsored by the Nedbank Cape Winemakers Guild Development Trust since 2006, the Protégé Programme is a three year internship programme which seeks to transform the wine industry by cultivating and nurturing promising individuals to become winemakers of excellence.

The Protégés are mentored by members of the Guild who provide them with essential hands-on skills and experience.          

For more information on the Cape Winemakers Guild, contact Tel: 021 852 0408 or send an email to info@capewinemakersguild.com.

Follow @CapeWinemakersG on Twitter. Students interested in applying for the Protégé Programme can visit the Guild’s website at www.capewinemakersguild.com.

L'Avenir Grand Vin Chenin Blanc 2011 81 Points




Rich and ripe offerings with concentrated note of glazed stone fruit and honey, brush of citrus, viscous.

Alcohol: moderate plus| 13.5 % abv

Origin: Stellenbosch

Notes: peach | apricot | apples | toast | honey

Ideal drinking occasions: shared with friends

Serve with: chicken satay

Drink: now until 2015+

Tuesday, October 29, 2013

First Official Champagne Grand Tasting Held in Chicago




Event showcases 36 Champagne brands showing strength and diversity of famous region

CHICAGO – The largest official Champagne tasting in the United States kicks off today at the Ivy Room in Chicago. Trade and media attendees will have the opportunity to taste more than 100 unique wines from 36 different Champagne producers.

The event celebrates those wines produced in Champagne, France, which can only be called Champagne. Organized by the Comité Champagne, which represents all the grape growers and houses of Champagne, the tasting gives media, trade and the wine industry a special opportunity to taste and increase their knowledge of a wide variety of wines from the region available on the U.S. market.

“This is the first time we have hosted a Champagne tasting in Chicago and the fourth one we have held in the United States,” said Sam Heitner, director of the Champagne Bureau, USA the representative of the Comité Champagne in the United States. “The selection of more than 30 Champagne brands highlights the authentic qualities that are born from the land, climate and centuries-old methods that can only be found in Champagne, France.”

Jean-Marie Barillère, the Chairman of the Comité Champagne, and Thibaut Le Mailloux, Communications Director of the Comité Champagne are attending the tasting along with leadership from a number of prominent Champagne producers.

“Champagne is a location, 90 miles northeast of Paris, clearly defined and delimited since 1927; this wine region is integral to our unique product. That is why we say that ‘Champagne only comes from Champagne’ and why virtually every country in the world reserves the Champagne name exclusively for these wines,” said Le Mailloux. “With this event, we seek to increase understanding of the Champagne region in the United States, reaffirm the organization’s long-standing commitment to supporting the U.S. market and ensure U.S. trade, journalists and consumers know Champagne only comes from Champagne, France.”

Earlier this year, China and Brazil officially reserved the “Champagne” name for wines only from Champagne, France. Canada will follow on January 1, 2014. These countries join numerous others including Australia, India, Mexico, the EU and South Africa in ensuring that wine labels make it clear: Champagne only comes from Champagne, France.

In 2012, Champagne shipped 308 million bottles worldwide, with more than 17.7 million bottles shipped to the United States, making it Champagne’s second largest export market behind the UK.

For more information, follow us on Twitter at @ChampagneBureau and on Facebook at
https://www.facebook.com/ChampagneBureau.

About the Champagne Bureau, USA

The Champagne Bureau, USA, is the official U.S. representative of the Comité Champagne, a trade association which represents the grape growers and houses of Champagne, France. The Bureau works to educate U.S. consumers about the uniqueness of the wines of Champagne and expand their understanding of the need to protect the Champagne name. For more information, visit us online at http://www.champagne.us/. Follow us on Twitter at @ChampagneBureau.

Stylish J.C. Le Roux gift pack the perfect stocking filler for festive season



Make your festive season sparkle with the stylish Brut & La Vallée Cap Classique gift pack from J.C. Le Roux, available exclusively at Makro.

A glamorous gift to entice all the senses, the chic duo of J.C. Le Roux Brut Méthode Cap Classique and La Vallée, paired to perfection with two hand selected nougat treats, is ideal for everyday enjoyment.

J.C. Le Roux La Vallée is a rich, rewarding Cap Classique that suits all palates and is a firm favourite with people who enjoy an off-dry bubbly. Made predominantly of Pinot noir grapes, its fine, lively bubbles are sure to uplift any occasion, especially when enjoyed with a mango infused nougat in white chocolate.
A pecan and cashew nougat in dark chocolate is absolute bliss with J.C. Le Roux Brut, a refreshing Cap Classique composed predominantly of Pinot noir with a small component of Chardonnay.

This stunning gift pack is the perfect stocking filler to spoil someone special with Le Good Life. It is available exclusively at Makro for R139.95.

For more information on The House of J.C. Le Roux and its uplifting Cap Classiques, visit www.jcleroux.co.za, www.facebook.com/HouseofJCLeroux or follow @LeGoodLife on Twitter.

Enjoy flutes of Pongrácz at Franschhoek Cap Classique and Champagne Festival



Seize the moment and join Pongrácz for a luxurious Méthode Cap Classique indulgence at the Franschhoek ‘Magic of Bubbles’ Cap Classique and Champagne Festival, held from 30 November to 1 December on the lawns of the Huguenot Monument.

 The prestige cuvée, Desiderius Pongrácz 2008, Pongrácz Brut and Pongrácz Rosé will be showcased alongside fine Cap Classsique peers as well as French champagne.

With a uniquely styled fluted bottle that epitomises quality and nobility, Desiderius Pongrácz encapsulates grace and exceptional character, akin to its charismatic namesake. It is alluring with a rich complexity and a slight green tint that teems with light, lively bubbles and raciness on the palate.

Pongrácz Brut is a timeless Cap Classique with great complexity that imparts a wonderful foamy mouthful of black fruit flavours with a long, lingering aftertaste. The blushing Pongrácz Rosé is enchantingly dry with a wonderful foamy mouthful of black berry fruit flavours and delicate yeasty notes.

Tickets for the Franschhoek ‘Magic of Bubbles’ Cap Classique and Champagne Festival cost R200 at www.webtickets.co.za.  The event takes place between 12h00 and 17h00. For more on the event, visit the website at www.franschhoekmcc.co.za.

Visit www.pongracz.co.za, find us on Facebook or follow @Pongracz on Twitter.

New WAY2WINE Trail Run & Wine Extravaganza in the Bottelary Hills



Stellenbosch, Saturday, 9 November 2013

Pimp up your trainers and head for the Winelands for the 1st Extravaganza on the outskirts of Stellenbosch on Saturday, 9 November 2013.

While the more amped trail runners race through this new 12km circular vineyard route, the not-so-athletes who are unlikely to get a prize for breaking a sweat, can impress the judges with their creativity by dressing up.

Both the serious Trail Run and the more relaxed Wine Run/Walk start and finish at Hazendal with the route making its way through the vineyards of Kaapzicht, Mooiplaas, Fort Simon, Goede Hoop and Groenland.

Be sure to have your credit card handy as participants can purchase wines en route at the cellars for collection at the finish at Hazendal. Crèche facilities at Hazendal, offering supervision and a secure indoor play area, will be available at R20 per kid.

The Trail Run & Wine Tasting costs R220 whilst the Trail Run without the wine tastings for more serious participants costs R100 per person.

To pre-enter, visit www.eventry.co.za/event_entry/basket/53718. Late entries will be accepted at registration from 07h00 onwards on the day on Saturday, 9 November at Hazendal Wine Farm off Bottelary Road. For more information call Tel: 082496 8839 or email events@raw-promo.co.za.

Carta Vieja Malbec Reserva 2011 89+ Points




Exclusive to Woolworths, a great offering at under R 80 / bottle, a juicy and delicate Malbec with bright fruitiness, savory, in time for the festive season, served lightly chilled in summer.

Alcohol: moderate| 13 % abv

Origin: Loncomilla Valley | Chile

Notes: plums | cherries | violets | ash | toast

Ideal drinking occasions: shared with friends

Serve with: grilled meats

Drink: now until 2016+

Anthonij Rupert Wines Cape of Good Hope Parel Vallei Farmstead Merlot 2009 93 Points



Single vineyard offering, screaming of elegance and bright purity, this is their best to date, do have a Pomerol feel, great freshness and delicacy, tactile, one of South Africa's finest Merlot to date, tiny production of 1000 bottles only, seek it out, a bargain for the quality.

Alcohol: moderate | 13 % abv

Origin: Stellenbosch

Notes: plums | mulberry | olives | spicy | toast

Ideal drinking occasions: dining out

Serve with: pork char siu

Drink: now until 2023+

Welde No1 Premium Pils 89 Points



Fresh, rich with a bright bitter twist, lots of flavour!

Alcohol: low| 4.8 % abv

Origin: Baden-Württemberg | Germany

Notes: malty | citrus | roast | grilled | hops

Ideal drinking occasions: anytime

Serve with: grilled pork sausages served with mustard

Drink: now

Welde Natur Stoff Naturtrubes Kellerbier 89 Points



Slight cloudy, yet not faulty, intense hops almost stout in character, rich and powerful, yet surprisingly refreshing, lots of character.

Beer made from organic sources

Alcohol: low | 5.6 % abv

Origin: Baden-Württemberg | Germany

Notes: roasted hops| baked | nutty | blonde

Ideal drinking occasions: anytime

Serve with: chicken briyani

Drink: now

Welde Weizen Hefe Hell 89 Points



Subtle and fresh, with spicy notes, perfect summer tipple

Alcohol: low | 5 % abv

Origin: Baden-Württemberg | Germany

Notes: malty | orange zest | spicy | cloves | hops

Ideal drinking occasions: anytime

Serve with: BBQ meats

Drink: now

BUNNAHABHAIN 40 YEAR OLD - ONE OF THE RAREST WHISKIES IN THE WORLD AT WHISKY LIVE

BUNNAHABHAIN 40 YEAR OLD - ONE OF THE RAREST WHISKIES IN THE WORLD AT WHISKY LIVE
Bunnahabhain 40 year old

Be a part of the ultimate moment in rarity as you head to the 2013 FNB Whisky Live at the Sandton Convention Centre in Sandton on November 6th to 8th to stand a chance of being one of only a handful of South Africans offered the privilege to taste the limited edition Bunnahabhain 40-year-old single malt Scotch whisky.

The whisky is not available in South Africa to purchase nor has it been tasted here before. Only 750 bottles were released in only a few countries in 2012 and beginning of 2013, numbered by hand and signed by master distiller, Ian MacMillan. If you were able to find a bottle from one of the international online whisky stores it would cost you about R32 000, which equates to about R3200 per tot, if you were to order it at a whisky lounge.

Ian will be conducting special tastings of this extraordinary whisky at the FNB Whisky Live Sandton festival, and by entering a competition at the Bunnahabhain stand, a lucky few will have the chance to be part of the ultimate moment in rarity by winning a tasting.

Bunnahabhain’s (pronounced Bū-na-ha-venn) distillery is situated on the north-eastern tip of Isle of Islay, world renowned for the whiskies produced there. And it was here in the warehouses dating back to 1881, that master distiller Ian MacMillan quite by accident discovered a number of forgotten casks when he noticed them on the distillery’s ledgers and went in search of these hidden gems.  It was one of Ian’s most exhilarating moments of his career, spanning over 40 years the same number of years the whisky quietly matured, when he stumbled upon this incredibly special find.

According to MacMillan, the whisky is one of the most unique in the world for a number of reasons. “Apart from the fact that the whisky spent four decades maturing, there are very few 40-year-old whiskies from Islay. In addition Bunnahabhain is the only distillery on Islay not to use peated malted barley when crafting single malts and as a result, the fruity, character of the whisky is more pronounced. Due to the close proximity to the sea of the warehouses where the casks are stored during maturation, a noticeable sea influence is evident in the finish.”

He adds that the taste of the Bunnahabhain 40-year-old mirrors the time it spent in wood. “Fragrant notes of sweet oak, hazelnuts, citrus peel and chocolate with hints of light smokiness on the nose. The taste is rich and complex balanced by heather honey, ginger chocolate, sweet fruits with a spicy and nutty finish and a hint of sea salt.”

The eagerly awaited Bunnahabhain 40- year-old’s label features the maritime history of the distillery, illustrating the whisky’s journey over the past four decades and is designed and signed by the renowned Scottish illustrator Iain McIntosh. The bottle is presented in a specially commissioned wooden  tube featuring a hidden compartment.

Also at the Whisky Live, you can taste the acclaimed range of Bunnahahain’s single malts in the main tasting hall at the festival and learn more about the 12- and 18- year-olds. Both received a gold medal each at the San Francisco International Spirits Competition and  the 25-year-old was awarded a double gold.

MacMillan will be conducting an exclusive workshop where you will have the rare opportunity to discover the stories and journeys of the single malts produced at Bunnahabhain. The workshop has very limited seating available and takes place on Friday, 8 November at 20.00. The cost is R110 per person and lasts an hour.

You can also book a private tasting of these elegant single malts and meet Pierre Meintjes, a whisky connoisseur and Master of the Quaich. The tastings are free of charge but are treated  on a first-come-first served basis and can be booked on the night at the Festival at selected times to be announced at the show.

Before and after the FNB Whisky Live Festival, you can get access to the exclusive Bunnahabhain VIP area at Cafe de la Salute from 17.00 to 19.00 and 21.00 to 23.00. The lounge is reserved for those who purchase Bunnahabhain at the restaurant during the promotional times.

Bunnahabhain’s single malts are un-chillfiltered, which is a return to the way whisky was made at Bunnahabhain many years ago. By not chill-filtering the whiskies, no flavours are taken away or added, and the whisky retains all of its depth of flavour, aromas, colours and character.

This allows the gentle, subtle notes of the malts to come through, providing a purer taste, nose and appearance.
Bunnahabhain has created exclusively for Whisky Live, a limited edition gift set containing an ice bucket and two whisky tumblers which are given as complimentary to those who purchase a bottle of either the Bunnahabhain 18- or 25-year-old. The gift set is available whilst stocks last.

Bunnahabhain is available at fine whisky stores and outlets and retails for about R599 (12-year-old), R899 (18-year-old) and R2399 (25-year-old)

Visit www.whiskylivefestival.co.za for more information and to purchase tickets

Make summer sparkle with Pongrácz chocolate pairing at Val de Vie Market




10 November, 17 November, 1 December and 8 December, 10h00 – 15h00, The Market at Val de Vie

Indulge in seductive moments of luxury with an exclusive pairing of Pongrácz and fine, handmade chocolates at The Market at Val de Vie near Paarl on alternate weekends in November and December.

With the next market taking place on Sunday, 10 November, visitors can enjoy the perfect summer tasting experience of three specially fashioned chocolates custom-made to bring out the unique flavour profile of Pongrácz Brut, Pongrácz Rosé and the award winning signature Desiderius Pongrácz 2008.

First up is the flirtatious and lively Pongrácz Rosé paired with a delicate Rose Geranium milk chocolate. The smooth cocoa and milk chocolate adds a hint of sweetness and lifts the fresh berry notes of the seductive Cap Classique. The romantic embrace of pure roses as the rose geranium flavour of the chocolate infuses into the Rosé leaves a delightfully refreshing and lusciously invigorating finish.

Next, the crisp Pongrácz Brut is a refreshing partner for a velvety Roasted Almond and Lime white chocolate. The roasted almonds accentuate the biscuit and baked bread nuttiness whilst the lime lifts the fresh citrus and zest of the Pongrácz. Savour the full fruit and complexity of this delightful Cap Classique with all the flavours in perfect harmony.

An irresistible Hot Plum white chocolate is the alter ego of the luxurious prestige cuvée, Desiderius Pongrácz 2008. The chocolate, with its full fruit on the nose and warm, tingling cayenne pepper on the palate, embraces this charismatic signature Cap Classique. A melding of flavours with great complexity, this combination is a wonderful mouthful of smooth creaminess and an explosion of tastes erupting in stages. The finish is divinely elegant and keeps the palate yearning for more.

A Pongrácz and oyster tasting will also be on offer at these not-to-be missed events.

The Pongrácz and chocolate pairing costs R50 per person. The Market at Val de Vie, a fresh goods and craft market, showcases some of the finest local produce from the Paarl-Franschhoek Valley. It provides the ideal platform for vendors to promote their wares and grow their businesses, in a beautiful setting that is recognised as one of South Africa’s top destinations.


The Market at Val de Vie takes place from 10h00 to 15h00 on alternate weekends. The next market dates are: 10 November, 17 November, 1 December and 8 December.

Visit www.valdevie.co.za. For more on Pongrácz, visit www.pongracz.co.za, Facebook or follow @Pongracz on Twitter.

Saturday, October 26, 2013

Timothy White The Sauvignon Blanc 2013 89+ Points



From La Petite Vigne Cellar in Franschhoek, part of Black Elephant Vintners portfolio, characterful, perfume, juicy and broad textured offering with ripe Sauvignon character, fairly rich in style, yet have brightness to make it exciting, only 2687 bottles produced, seek it out

Alcohol: moderate| 13 % abv

Origin: Franschhoek

Notes: passion fruit | gooseberries | lime | floral | salt

Ideal drinking occasions: lunchtime

Serve with: boiled noodles with chicken and spring onions

Drink: now until 2014

Friday, October 25, 2013

Worldwide Celebrations Mark #ChampagneDay

Worldwide Celebrations Mark #ChampagneDay


Colette Babson Wins 2013 Champagne Day Contest

WASHINGTON –Today, October 25, marks the fourth annual Champagne Day, where wine lovers around the globe raise a flute to the quintessential wine of celebration, good cheer and toasts everywhere: Champagne. There will be terrific opportunities for Champagne lovers to celebrate in wine stores, restaurants, bars and in spontaneous gatherings with friends.

“Champagne, often the selection to mark joyous and special occasions, is a wine that evokes friendship, laughter and enduring memories when enjoyed among friends and family,” said Sam Heitner, director of the Champagne Bureau, USA. “Champagne Day offers the perfect opportunity to pop open a bottle, explore the beauty these wines have to offer and turn a moment into a celebration while remembering that Champagne only comes from Champagne, France.”

Champagne Day was initially created by Vintuba wine blog to recognize and appreciate the sparkling wine that comes exclusively from Champagne, France. Today, it brings millions of wine lovers worldwide together to celebrate in a host of events, retail opportunities and a large-scale online celebration of all aspects of this unique bubbly.

To celebrate Champagne Day and support consumer interest in this unique wine, the Champagne Bureau, USA hosted a contest where individuals submitted photos and videos completing the sentence “Champagne is. . .” Valid entries exclusively showcased authentic Champagne and supported the sentiment expressed in the statement: "Champagne only comes from Champagne, France." The Bureau is pleased to announce Colette Babson is the lucky winner of a new iPad mini.

“I love Champagne. It is such a special wine to me, and there’s really nothing else like it in the world,” said Colette Babson. “Even the everyday becomes extraordinary when you pour a flute of Champagne. Champagne makes everything sparkle.”

Consumers across the U.S. will have many special opportunities to enjoy Champagne today with a host of Champagne Day-only deals at retailers, tastings and menu pairings at restaurants and other spontaneous celebrations. The Champagne Bureau, USA is also supporting the large Champagne social media conversation and Champagne lovers around the globe are encouraged to blog, tweet, post and share their experience celebrating with the #ChampagneDay hashtag. To find some of the events happening around the world and learn more about how to participate in the online celebrations, visit the official Champagne Day event page: http://bit.ly/19EIh4L.

For more information about #ChampagneDay or the worldwide effort to protect the Champagne name, please visit http://bit.ly/19EIh4L or www.champagne.us.

About The Champagne Bureau, USA
The Champagne Bureau, USA, is the official U.S. representative of the Comité Champagne, a trade association which represents the grape growers and houses of Champagne, France. The Bureau works to educate U.S. consumers about the uniqueness of the wines of Champagne and expand their understanding of the need to protect the Champagne name. For more information, visit us online at http://www.champagne.us/. Follow us on Twitter at @ChampagneBureau.

Constantia Glen hosts Rosé Spring Celebration


Constantia Saddle Rose

Saturday, 16 November, 12h00-17h00, Constantia Glen

Indulge your love of Rosé and join Constanta Glen, together with neighbouring wine estates Beau Constantia and Eagles’ Nest, on Saturday, 16 November, for a Rosé Spring Celebration on lush lawns with spectacular views amidst the vineyards.

The three participating farms are all situated on the upper reaches of Constantia Nek, the pinnacle of the Constantia Valley Wine Route. The cellars will be presenting their Rosés as well as a selection of other wines from this remarkable appellation known for its classically crafted, cool climate wines. Visitors will be spoiled with a picnic lunch and can purchase wines to take home, including the newly released 2013 Constantia Saddle Rosé.

Enjoy a relaxed day of fine wines at one of the jewels of the Constantia Wine Valley.

Booking for the Rosé Spring Celebration at Constantia Glen’s Manfred’s Legacy on Saturday, 16 November from 12h00 to 17h00 is essential. Tickets are available at the participating farms at R250 per person.

Manfred's Legacy at Constantia Glen

Known for exceptional, award winning cool climate Sauvignon Blanc and Bordeaux-style reds, Constantia Glen is open daily from 10h00 till 17h00 on week days and from 10h00 till 16h00 on Saturdays and Sundays. Look out for the Constantia Glen signs towards the top of Constantia Main road. Call 021 7956100 or e-mail sales@constantiaglen.com Visit www.constantiaglen.com Facebook or follow @ConstantiaGlen on Twitter. The GPS co-ordinates are S 34º 0’39.6” E 18º 24’30.6”.

Fleur du Cap cracks Top 10 in 2013 Chardonnay Report



Standing up to critical acclaim, Fleur du Cap Unfiltered Chardonnay 2012 has secured a spot amongst the Top 10 selection in The Christian Eedes Chardonnay Report 2013.

The Christian Eedes Chardonnay Report 2013, presented by Sanlam Private Investments, is chaired by Eedes himself with two experienced co-judges, Roland Peens of the Wine Cellar and James Pietersen, beverage manager for Balducci’s and Belthazar restaurants.

The 60 wines reviewed in the report were selected based on the performance in local and international competitions and those considered by Eedes as the best in their field.

“Rich and full, but well balanced thanks to tangy acidity,” is how Eedes describes the Fleur du Cap Unfiltered Chardonnay 2012 which shows plenty refreshing lemons and oranges flavours complemented with subtle oak and an intriguing maritime note.

Awarded 4 stars by the Report’s judging panel, the Fleur du Cap Unfiltered Chardonnay 2012 also received a Gold medal from both the International Wine and Spirits Competition and Sélections Mondiale des Vins Canada earlier this year.

The winemaking trio behind this award winning Chardonnay, which is blended from Stellenbosch, Somerset West and Robertson grapes, comprises winemaker Pieter Badenhorst who is responsible for Fleur du Cap’s white wines, cellar-master Andrea Freeborough and viticulturist, Bennie Liebenberg.

Fleur du Cap Unfiltered Chardonnay 2012 is available at select fine dining restaurants, boutique wine stores or the Fleur du Cap cellar door at around R95 per bottle.

For more information and everything inspired by nature, visit www.fleurducap.co.za, fleurducap.tumblr.com or join the Fleur du Cap Facebook community.

Willi Schaefer Graacher Riesling Trocken 2011 91+ Points



Riesling is the finest white variety, full stop. Exemplary example such as this is simply fantastic and shows why, Riesling deserve better attention from local consumers and how table and  food friendly they are with their invigorating freshness, lively profile, delicate yet perfectly ripe fruit, juicy with bright texture, the "low" alcohol  lends itself to copious glasses and bottles and one can still go back to work after! seek it out

Purchase at Bootleggers Fourways.

Alcohol: perfect| 11.5 % abv

Origin: Mosel | Germany

Notes: peach | pineapple | lime | honey | floral | slate

Ideal drinking occasions: lunchtime

Serve with: grilled sea bass

Drink: now until 2023+

Fleur du Cap wins Regional Trophy at 2013 Decanter Asia



Fleur du Cap Noble Late Harvest 2011 has been crowned the best South African sweet wine in Asia after winning the Regional Trophy at the 2013 Decanter Asia Wine Awards (DAWA).

Sister to the famed Decanter World Wine Awards, the DAWA is Asia’s largest wine competition and received more than 2,300 entries in this year. The 2013 DAWA judging panel comprised 40 leading wine commentators from across Asia.

Undeniably one of South Africa’s top dessert wines, the much lauded Fleur du Cap Noble Late Harvest has stood up to critical acclaim in numerous prestigious international and South African wine competitions.

The line-up of international awards range from a trophy from the Decanter World Wine Awards in London earlier this year for Best South African Sweet Wine under £15 to a Gold Outstanding medal at the 2012 International Wine &Spirits Competition.

A gorgeous blend of Chenin blanc (76%), Sauvignon blanc (13%) and Chardonnay (11%), Fleur du Cap Noble Late Harvest 2011 shows beautiful aromas of raisins and marmalade with whiffs of typical dusty botrytis. Dried apricots and peaches meld with well-balanced acidity on the palate ending in a perfectly gorgeous aftertaste.

Fleur du Cap Noble Late Harvest 2011 is available at boutique wine stores and the Fleur du Cap cellar door at Die Bergkelder in Stellenbosch at around R119 per bottle.

For more information and everything inspired by nature, visit www.fleurducap.co.za, fleurducap.tumblr.com or join the Fleur du Cap Facebook community.

Decorate your Christmas tree with Le Good Life cheer from J.C. Le Roux


JC Xmas necktag

Buy your favourite J.C. Le Roux this festive season and add an extra bit of Yuletide cheer with limited edition Christmas tree decorations.

Available on all J.C. Le Roux Méthode Cap Classique and sparkling wines at leading retailers, these specially designed decorations are also perfect accessories if a bottle of J.C. Le Roux is on your gift buying list.

Whether you spoil someone with the elegant J.C. Le Roux flagship, Scintilla 2003, everybody’s favourite, Le Domaine, or the recently launched La Fleurette Non-Alcoholic sparkling blush, uplifting Le Good Life moments are guaranteed.

Keep an eye out for the limited edition Christmas tree decorations from J.C. Le Roux, available in stores from November.

For more on J.C. Le Roux, visit www.jcleroux.co.za, www.facebook/HouseofJCLeRoux or follow @LeGoodLife on Twitter.