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Friday, September 16, 2011

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

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


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

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


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


L’Avenir Simonsberg- Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon 1992

Kanonkop Estate Simonsberg- Stellenbosch Paul Sauer 1995

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


Le Bonheur Simonsberg- Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon 1999

Nederburg Private Bin R 163 Coastal Region Cabernet Sauvignon 2001

Neethlingshof Lord Neethling Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon 2001

Tokara Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon 2001

Top 3 Cabernet Sauvignon of 2011 Nederburg Auction


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

2 - Tokara Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon 2001

3 - Le Bonheur Simonsberg- Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon 1999

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


Le Bonheur Simonsberg- Stellenbosch Prima 2001

Neethlingshof Stellenbosch Lord Neethling Laurentius 2002

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


Spier Private Collection Stellenbosch Pinotage 2004

Jacobsdal Stellenbosch Pinotage 2005

Graham Beck Old Road Coastal Region Pinotage 2006

Kanonkop Simonsberg- Stellenbosch Pinotage 1999

KWV Western Cape Pinotage 2006

Top 3 Pinotage of 2011 Nederburg Auction


1 - Spier Private Collection Stellenbosch Pinotage 2004

2 -Kanonkop Simonsberg- Stellenbosch Pinotage 1999

3 - Graham Beck Old Road Coastal Region Pinotage 2006

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



De Grendel Durbanville Merlot 2005


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


Kleine Zalze Family Reserve Coastal Region Sauvignon Blanc 2006

Lomond Sugarbush Cape Agulhas Sauvignon Blanc 2007

Spier Private Collection Coastal Region Sauvignon Blanc 2007

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


Fryer’s Cove Bamboes Bay Sauvignon Blanc 2009

Nederburg Private Bin D 215 Groenekloof Sauvignon Blanc 2009

Nederburg Private Bin D 234 Western Cape Sauvignon Blanc 2009

Top 3 Sauvignon Blanc of 2011 Nederburg Auction


1 - Kleine Zalze Family Reserve Coastal Region Sauvignon Blanc 2006

2 - Fryer’s Cove Bamboes Bay Sauvignon Blanc 2009

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

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


Uva Mira Vineyard Selection Stellenbosch Chardonnay 2004

De Wetshof Bateleur Unfiltered Robertson Chardonnay Magnum 2006

Mulderbosch Barrel Fermented Stellenbosch Chardonnay 2006

Uva Mira Single Vineyard Stellenbosch Chardonnay 2009


Top 3 Chardonnay of 2011 Nederburg Auction


1 - Uva Mira Single Vineyard Stellenbosch Chardonnay 2009

2 - Mulderbosch Barrel Fermented Stellenbosch Chardonnay 2006

3 - De Wetshof Bateleur Unfiltered Robertson Chardonnay Magnum 2006

Chardonnay for a very special occasion


De Wetshof Estate Finesse Robertson Chardonnay 1993

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


Bredell’s Stellenbosch Vintage Reserve Port 1991

KWV White Port 1966

KWV Jerepigo 1969

KWV Jerepigo 1973

Boland Paarl Wit Muskadel 1997

Nuy Rooi Muskadel 2004

Klein Constantia Estate Constantia Vin de Constance 1988

Top 3 Natural Sweet and Fortified Wine of 2011 Nederburg Auction


1 - Klein Constantia Estate Contantia Vin de Constance 1988

2 - KWV White Port 1966

3 - Bredell’s Stellenbosch Vintage Reserve Port 1991

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


Nederburg Edelkeur 1979
De Wetshof Estate Noble Late Harvest 1991


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


Nederburg Eminence 2001

Nederburg Eminence 2005

Neethlingshof Stellenbosch Weisser Riesling Noble Late Harvest 2003

Neethlingshof Lord Neethling Stellenbosch Weisser Riesling Noble Late Harvest 2007

Top 3 Noble Late Harvest of 2011 Nederburg Auction


1 - Nederburg Eminence 2001

2 - Nederburg Eminence 2005

3 - Neethlingshof Stellenbosch Weisser Riesling Noble Late Harvest 2003

Miguel Chan Top 10 to seek out at 2011 Nederburg Auction


1 - Kleine Zalze Family Reserve Coastal Region Sauvignon Blanc 2006

2 - De Wetshof Estate Finesse Robertson Chardonnay 1993

3 - De Wetshof Estate Robertson Noble Late Harvest 1991

4 - Nederburg Eminence 2001

5 - Klein Constantia Estate Contantia Vin de Constance 1988

6 - Mulderbosch Barrel Fermented Stellenbosch Chardonnay 2006

7 - KWV White Port 1966

8 - Fryer’s Cove Bamboes Bay Sauvignon Blanc 2009

9 - De Wetshof Bateleur Unfiltered Robertson Chardonnay Magnum 2006

10 - Uva Mira Single Vineyard Stellenbosch Chardonnay 2009

Miguel Chan Top 10 to seek out at 2011 Nederburg Auction

Miguel Chan Top 10 to seek out at 2011 Nederburg Auction

1 - Kleine Zalze Family Reserve Coastal Region Sauvignon Blanc 2006

2 - De Wetshof Estate Finesse Robertson Chardonnay 1993

3 - De Wetshof Estate Robertson Noble Late Harvest 1991

4 - Nederburg Eminence 2001

5 - Klein Constantia Estate Contantia Vin de Constance 1988

6 - Mulderbosch Barrel Fermented Stellenbosch Chardonnay 2006

7 - KWV White Port 1966

8 - Fryer’s Cove Bamboes Bay Sauvignon Blanc 2009

9 - De Wetshof Bateleur Unfiltered Robertson Chardonnay Magnum 2006

10 - Uva Mira Single Vineyard Stellenbosch Chardonnay 2009

Top 3 Noble Late Harvest of 2011 Nederburg Auction

Top 3 Noble Late Harvest of 2011 Nederburg Auction

1 - Nederburg Eminence 2001

2 - Nederburg Eminence 2005

3 - Neethlingshof Stellenbosch Weisser Riesling Noble Late Harvest 2003

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

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


Nederburg Eminence 2001

Nederburg Eminence 2005

Neethlingshof Stellenbosch Weisser Riesling Noble Late Harvest 2003

Neethlingshof Lord Neethling Stellenbosch Weisser Riesling Noble Late Harvest 2007

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

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

Nederburg Edelkeur 1979

De Wetshof Estate Noble Late Harvest 1991

Top 3 Natural Sweet and Fortified Wine of 2011 Nederburg Auction

Top 3 Natural Sweet and Fortified Wine of 2011 Nederburg Auction

1 - Klein Constantia Estate Contantia Vin de Constance 1988

2 - KWV White Port 1966

3 - Bredell’s Stellenbosch Vintage Reserve Port 1991

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

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


Bredell’s Stellenbosch Vintage Reserve Port 1991

KWV White Port 1966

KWV Jerepigo 1969

KWV Jerepigo 1973

Boland Paarl Wit Muskadel 1997

Nuy Rooi Muskadel 2004

Klein Constantia Estate Constantia Vin de Constance 1988

Chardonnay for a very special occasion

Chardonnay for a very special occasion


De Wetshof Estate Finesse Robertson Chardonnay 1993

Top 3 Chardonnay of 2011 Nederburg Auction

Top 3 Chardonnay of 2011 Nederburg Auction


1 - Uva Mira Single Vineyard Stellenbosch Chardonnay 2009

2 - Mulderbosch Barrel Fermented Stellenbosch Chardonnay 2006

3 - De Wetshof Bateleur Unfiltered Robertson Chardonnay Magnum 2006

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

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


Uva Mira Vineyard Selection Stellenbosch Chardonnay 2004

De Wetshof Bateleur Unfiltered Robertson Chardonnay Magnum 2006

Mulderbosch Barrel Fermented Stellenbosch Chardonnay 2006

Uva Mira Single Vineyard Stellenbosch Chardonnay 2009

Top 3 Sauvignon Blanc of 2011 Nederburg Auction

Top 3 Sauvignon Blanc of 2011 Nederburg Auction

1 - Kleine Zalze Family Reserve Coastal Region Sauvignon Blanc 2006

2 - Fryer’s Cove Bamboes Bay Sauvignon Blanc 2009

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

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

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


Fryer’s Cove Bamboes Bay Sauvignon Blanc 2009

Nederburg Private Bin D 215 Groenekloof Sauvignon Blanc 2009

Nederburg Private Bin D 234 Western Cape Sauvignon Blanc 2009

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

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


Kleine Zalze Family Reserve Coastal Region Sauvignon Blanc 2006

Lomond Sugarbush Cape Agulhas Sauvignon Blanc 2007

Spier Private Collection Coastal Region Sauvignon Blanc 2007

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

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

De Grendel Durbanville Merlot 2005

Top 3 Pinotage of 2011 Nederburg Auction

Top 3 Pinotage of 2011 Nederburg Auction


1 - Spier Private Collection Stellenbosch Pinotage 2004

2 -Kanonkop Simonsberg- Stellenbosch Pinotage 1999

3 - Graham Beck Old Road Coastal Region Pinotage 2006

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

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


Spier Private Collection Stellenbosch Pinotage 2004

Jacobsdal Stellenbosch Pinotage 2005

Graham Beck Old Road Coastal Region Pinotage 2006

Kanonkop Simonsberg- Stellenbosch Pinotage 1999

KWV Western Cape Pinotage 2006

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

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

Le Bonheur Simonsberg- Stellenbosch Prima 2001

Neethlingshof Stellenbosch Lord Neethling Laurentius 2002

Top 3 Cabernet Sauvignon of 2011 Nederburg Auction

Top 3 Cabernet Sauvignon of 2011 Nederburg Auction


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

2 - Tokara Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon 2001

3 - Le Bonheur Simonsberg- Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon 1999

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

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


Le Bonheur Simonsberg- Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon 1999

Nederburg Private Bin R 163 Coastal Region Cabernet Sauvignon 2001

Neethlingshof Lord Neethling Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon 2001

Tokara Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon 2001

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

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

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

Thursday, September 15, 2011

SOUTH AFRICAN SOMMELIERS ASSOCIATION (SASA)

SOUTH AFRICAN SOMMELIERS ASSOCIATION (SASA)


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


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

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Yours faithfully

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


South African Sommelier Association


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

Friday, September 9, 2011

Miguel Chan Top 10 CWG wines of 2011

Miguel Chan Top 10 CWG wines of 2011



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

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

All wines were tasted sighted.

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


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

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

26 cases on offer

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


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


3 – Flagstone Happy Hour 2009 92 Points



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

4 – Saronsberg Die Erf Tulbagh Grenache Noir 2010 92 Points


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


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


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


6 – Spier Stellenbosch Pinotage 2009 92 Points


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


7 – De Trafford Sijnn Swellendam Touriga Nacional 2009 92 Points


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

8 – Boekenhoutskloof Swartland Syrah Auction Reserve 2009 92 Points


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

9 – Ernie Els CWG 2009 91 Points


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

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


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

Raise your paddle

Raise your paddle


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

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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Here are Miguel's top 10 picks


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

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



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

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

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

26 cases on offer

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

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

46 cases on offer

3.Flagstone Happy Hour 2009 92 Points

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

60 cases on offer

4. Saronsberg Die Erf Tulbagh Grenache Noir 2010 92 Points

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

26 cases on offer



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

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

40 cases on offer

6.Spier Stellenbosch Pinotage 2009 92 Points

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

42 cases on offer

7. De Trafford Sijnn Swellendam Touriga Nacional 2009 92 Points

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

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

64 cases on offer

8.Boekenhoutskloof Swartland Syrah Auction Reserve 2009 92 Points

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

30 cases on offer

9.Ernie Els CWG 2009 91 Points

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

70 cases on offer

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

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

96 cases on offer

Le Riche Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon 2008 91 Points

Le Riche Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon 2008 91 Points


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

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

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

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

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

Avondale Cyclus Paarl 2009 86 Points

Avondale Cyclus Paarl 2009 86 Points



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

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

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

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

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

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

www.avondalewine.co.za

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

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


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

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

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

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

South African Sommeliers Association (SASA) present at the Nederburg Auction 2011

South African Sommeliers Association (SASA) present at the Nederburg Auction 2011


South African Sommeliers Association (SASA) will be present at the Nederburg Auction 2011, Friday 16th and Saturday 17th September 2011, to highlights the impressive job SASA will be doing to raise awareness about Professional Wine Service in South Africa, as well as recognizing the Sommelier profession status.

Should you wish to contact the South African Sommeliers Association (SASA), you may reach us via email: info@sommeliers.org.za

South African Sommeliers Association (SASA) will be present at WINEX Johannesburg 2011

South African Sommeliers Association (SASA) will be present at WINEX Johannesburg 2011


South African Sommeliers Association (SASA) will be present at WINEX Johannesburg in October with Riedel Glassware and will be represented by 2 founding members, Sommeliers Francis Krone of The Saxon and Miguel Chan of Southern Sun Hotels.

Should you wish to contact the South African Sommeliers Association (SASA), you may reach us via email: info@sommeliers.org.za

South African Sommeliers Association (SASA) stand at WINEX Cape Town

South African Sommeliers Association (SASA) stand at WINEX Cape Town


South African Sommeliers Association (SASA) stand at WINEX Cape Town with Riedel glassware will be represented by 2 founding members, they are

A - Sommeliers Mia Martensson and Higgo Jacobs tonight Thursday 7th September 2011

B - Sommeliers Mia Martensson and Kent Scheermeyer, tomorrow night Friday 8th September 2011

Should you wish to contact the South African Sommeliers Association (SASA), you may reach us via email: info@sommeliers.org.za

South African Sommeliers Association (SASA)Chenin Blanc Masterclass at Winex Cape Town 9 September 2011

South African Sommeliers Association (SASA)Chenin Blanc Masterclass at Winex Cape Town 9 September 2011


South African Sommeliers Association (SASA) first official public showcase will be a Chenin Blanc Masterclass on Friday 9th September 2011 at Winex Cape Town, presented by Sommelier Extraordinaire Mia Martensson, one of the founding members of SASA.

The tutored tasting will present 6 wines:

1 – Ernie Els Big Easy White Chenin Blanc
2 – Delaire Chenin Blanc
3 – Ken Forrester Petit Chenin Blanc
4 – Ken Forrester The FMC
5 – Radford Dale Chenin Blanc
6 – Zewenwacht Chenin Blanc

Open for all member’s of public attending WINEX Cape Town, starting sharp 1800.

Should you wish to contact the South African Sommeliers Association (SASA), you may reach us via email: info@sommeliers.org.za

South African Sommeliers Association (SASA) website

South African Sommeliers Association (SASA) website


South African Sommeliers Association (SASA) website will soon be launched, watch this space for links.

Should you wish to contact the South African Sommeliers Association (SASA), you may reach us via email: info@sommeliers.org.za

Thursday, September 8, 2011

South African Sommeliers Association (SASA)

South African Sommeliers Association (SASA)


South African Sommeliers Association (SASA) had been embrace by WINEX and Riedel glassware, and will be sharing a table at WINEX Cape Town tonight, 7th September 2011.

This will be SASA first official public showcase, please pop in to ask and see first hand the impressive job SASA will be doing to raise awareness about Professional Wine Service in South Africa, as well as recognizing the Sommelier profession status.

Should you wish to contact the South African Sommeliers Association (SASA), you may reach us via email: info@sommeliers.org.za

Radford Dale Freedom Elgin Pinot Noir 2009 89+ Points

Radford Dale Freedom Elgin Pinot Noir 2009 89+ Points


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

Clean, medium plus intensity, cherry pip, kirsch, dark cherries, cranberries, earthy, loamy note, complex oaking, some cedar wood, tobacco ash.

Dry with medium plus acidity, medium tannins, medium alcohol (13 ABV), sappy crunchy cherries note follows through, boiled beetroot, fresh and elegant, very good vinosity with poignant mid palate, medium plus length, medium plus concentration, now until 2019

Bowwood Western Cape Cabernet Sauvignon & Merlot 2005 82 Points

Bowwood Western Cape Cabernet Sauvignon & Merlot 2005 82 Points


Clear, bright, mahogany / cherry red with brown rim, medium plus concentration, medium plus viscosity, no gas or sediment.

Clean, medium plus intensity, blackcurrant, cassis, blueberries, hints of prune, complex earthy note with spicy oak character, lending a smoky, tobacco / cigar note, stony mineral evident, complex and layered.

Dry, medium plus acidity, medium alcohol (13.5 ABV), dark red fruits follows through, sour cherry note, black olives, slight herbaceousness, medium length, medium complexity, some bitterness on aftertaste distract.

Co-fermented blend of 72% Cabernet Sauvignon and 28% Merlot, mostly Paarl source, for now until 2016.

Ross Gower Elgin Sauvignon Blanc 2009 87 Points

Ross Gower Elgin Sauvignon Blanc 2009 87 Points


Clear, day bright, pale straw with slight green tinge, medium concentration, medium viscosity, some CO2 gas, no sediment.

Clean, medium plus intensity, green fig, green grass, lime, gooseberries, artichoke, briny, quartz minerality, no wood.

Dry, with high acidity, medium alcohol (12.5 ABV), freshly squeeze lime, honeyed mid palate, tightfull and textured, hints of peppery spices complexity, medium plus length, medium plus complexity.

From one if not the finest vintage in the Cape, this is a Sauvignon that will reward cellaring up to 2019, though so complex and intellectual now!