Posts Tagged ‘wine’
Saturday, November 26th, 2011
Steenberg Vineyards have just released Steenberg Sauvignon Blanc 2011 excelling once again with one of the cultivars which has built the reputation of this Constantia Wine Valley producer. Set against the Constantia mountains and facing False Bay, the reliable rainfall, mild temperatures and granite ridges ensure that this farm creates the best of South African cool climate wines.
Steenberg Sauvignon Blanc 2011
J D Pretorius crafted this wine with a series of batches of fruit from different blocks on the farm. These were also harvested at different levels of ripeness resulting in a serious, complex wine. JD has this to say about the wine:
Our Sauvignon Blanc is a true expression of Steenberg’s unique position and terroir which is absolutely ideal for the production of this varietal. The decomposed granite soils in the Sauvignon Blanc are perfect for this grape as the soil is slightly leaner, and prohibits overly vigourous growth of the vines, which in turn promotes a naturally controlled lower yield and excellent concentration of fruit in the berries. In addition, the farm’s location near the ocean results in lovely mineral notes from the maritime influence, and traces of earthy fynbos are evident as a result of its setting within the Cape Floral Kingdom. We take great care to work with purity of fruit and allow expression of the terroir, with the aim of producing wines that show constraint and a sense of place. I believe the Steenberg Sauvignon Blanc 2011 is a classic example of this.
Steenberg Sauvignon Blanc 2011
This wine is so much more than a poolside tipple, as my significant other and I experienced as we sat on our jetty watching the sun drop behind the mountains while sipping a glass of this elegant wine. Very much a food wine, it is made to complement foods like sushi, lemon-garnished fish dishes, salads dressed with vinaigrette and Thai food. There are lovely aromas of grapefruit and green apple with different aromas coming through each time the wine is swirled in the glass. When sipping the wine there is the sensation of mouth-filling freshness and zest, and flavours of lime, green apple and ruby grapefruit. The sensations stay on the palate for the longest time – always a sign of quality in wine.
Steenberg Sauvignon Blanc 2011 sells from the cellar door at R95.00 a bottle.
Contact telephone: +(27) 21 7132211
Tasting and sales: Mon – Frid 09h00 – 18h00
Sat/Sun and public holidays 10h00 – 18h00
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Tags: Constantia Wine Valley, False Bay, JD Pretorius, Steenberg Sauvignon Blanc 2011, Steenberg Vineyards, wine
Posted in The Daily Tipple | 3 Comments »
Thursday, November 24th, 2011
Charl du Plessis describes himself as a beer drinking winemaker, preferring micro-brewed Jack Black lager. This makes sense when you consider that Charl is a scratch golfer and cyclist who has completed the Cape Epic and Cape Pioneer Mountain Bike stage races several times – what better way to quench the thirst after competing.
The Spice Route winemaker, Charl Du Plessis
Chatting to Charl at the new home of the Spice Route restaurant and tasting room on the slopes of Paarl Mountain, I asked how it was that he became a winemaker. While studying viticulture at Elsenberg College in Stellenbosch he was intrigued by the elite group of Cellar Technology students who wore t-shirts splashed with red wine and who converted an extra dormitory into a wine tasting laboratory which only they had access to. He was soon accepted into the course as one of only 10 students and remembers drinking classic 1970′s premium wines, (which formed part of research stock for the wine making course) at inter-varsity rugby games whilst most students were drinking Black Label or Carling.
Charles Back, owner of The Spice Route winery
More recently Charl was sought out by Charles Back, Spice Route owner to create his innovative wines. Charles has this to say about Charl:
The man has enormous passion for wine and pays incredible attention to detail – with talented winemakers it’s usually either the one or the other; it’s rare to find both in one. He has an incredible affinity for the Swartland and dryland viticulture.
Charles Back is one of the originators of the Swartland revolution in South African wine culture. He bought a farm near Malmesbury in partnership with Gyles Webb of Thelema, wine writers John & Erica Platter and wine activist Jabulani Ntshangase in 1997, although he soon bought over the shares of the other partners leaving him to develope Klein Amoskuil into The Spice Route Winery.
Restaurant interior
Select blocks of 40 year-old Chenin Blanc and Pinotage were retained and unusual to the Western Cape, Mediterraen varieties, were planted: Shiraz, Mourvedre, Grenache, Petit Syrah, Barbera, Tannat, Sangiovese, Zinfandel, Carignan and Tempranillo. Viognier was established as a blending component for the rich, full-bodied, Rhone red cultivars. The Portugese grape, Souzao was also planted. These vines grow in deep composite soils without irrigation and benefit from the cool effect of the Atlantic ocean breezes. The resulting wines created by Charl and his team are of exceptional quality.
Currently these are The Spice Route wines with their prices ex cellar door:
Spice Route Sauvignon Blanc 2011 – R60.00
Spice Route Chenin Blanc 2010 light – R60.00
Spice Route Chenin Blanc 2010 – R60.00
Spice Route Viognier R90.00
Spice Route Mourvedre 2008 – R75.00
Spice Route Pinotage 2009 – R90.00
Spice Route Shiraz 2008 – R90.00
Spice Route Chakalaka 2009 – R110.00
Spice Route Syrah 2007 – R210.00
Spice Route Malabar 2006 – R350.00
My favourites? The flagship Syrah 2007 and Malabar 2006. The Viognier too is utterly delightful and a great friend of food.
Flagship wine, Malabar 2007
Visiting the new Spice Route restaurant with fellow bloggers last week I was amazed at how busy it was with large groups of diners and that after being open for only a couple of weeks. Relishing Chef Philip Pretorious’ cured linefish marinated in citrus with Szechuan pepper and wasabi mousse, and the traditional Indian butter chicken with rice pilaf, fresh roti and espresso foam, makes it easy to see why foodies are talking about this exciting new destination.
All of The Spice Route wines are served by the glass in the restaurant and there is no markup. From the tasting room a Sommelier Tasting of 6 wines is on offer for R35.00 per person and a deluxe tasting of 9 wines with samples of the dishes served in the restaurant for R90.00 per person.
Set to become The Biscuit Mill On Steroids, this family lifestyle venue will also be home to Jack Black Micro Brewery, a glass blowing studio and DV Artisan Chocolates.
The Spice Route Wines are sold at Caroline’s Fine Wine Shops and also at Makro if you need them in a hurry. Why not rather take the N1 out of Cape Town and visit the relaxing destination which has been created around these special wines?
Opening hours and contact details
Open seven days a week
Sunday – Thursday – 09h00 to 17h00
Friday – Saterday – 09h00 to 18h00.
Last tasting vouchers are sold 30min (standard tasting) and 1 hour (wine & food pairing) before closing, so as to allow sufficient time to complete your tasting to the high standards of service that Spice Route sets. We don’t like to rush things!
Telephone: +27 (0)21 863 5200
Email: tasting@spiceroute.co.za
Reservations for the restaurant can be made on
(021) 863-5222 or restaurant@spiceroute.co.za
Directions
From Cape Town on the N1:
Take exit 47 (Stellenbosch/Wellington/Klapmuts)
Turn RIGHT towards Klapmuts
At the four-way stop turn left onto R101 (follow signboard to Fairview)
After passing Simonsvlei on your right, turn LEFT into the Suid-Agter Paarl Road (follow signboard to Spice Route)
Spice Route is on your right hand side, about 4km along the road.
Tags: Barbera, Black Label, Cape Epic, Cape Pioneer Mountain Bike, Carignan, Carling, Charl du Plessis, Charles Back, chenin blanc, Elsenberg College, Grenache, Gyles Webb, Jabulani Ntshangase, John & Erica Platter, Malmesbury, Mourvedre, Petit Syrah, Pinotage, Sangiovese, shiraz, Souza, Spice Route restaurant, Swartland, Tannat, Tempranillo, The Spice Route Winery, Thelema, Viognier, wine, Zinfandel
Posted in Wineries that I visit and love | No Comments »
Wednesday, November 16th, 2011
Tim and Vaughan Pearson, from Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire, UK, realized a family dream when they established a vineyard on the slopes of Shaws Mountain near Hermanus. Here they produce the noble varieties Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir and Syrah which are able to benefit from the cooling influences of the nearby Atlantic.
Just released are the Seven Springs Vineyards Syrah 2010 as well as the Seven Springs Vineyards Chardonnay 2010.
The Syrah boasts a savoury, earthy character with soft tannins which came as a surprise for such a young wine. I liked the acidity and found the wine to be well balanced. The aftertaste stays and stays with just enough spiciness to create interest without dominating the palate. My opinion is that this Syrah is a fantastic wine with great structure which is drinking well now. In another five years it should reach its full potential.
My score is 18/20 – an excellent, superior quality wine.
The alcohol is 13.77%.
The Chardonnay impressed me with the lime scent when I took that first sniff. The sensation when I sipped that first taste completely bowled me over with scintillating freshness followed by an incredible, long finish. For me this is a perfect Summer wine.
Winemaker, Riana van der Merwe, reports that it was fermented and aged in second fill, 300 liter barrels and that it only completed 30% Malo-lactic fermentation. She suggests that good food matches would be savoury dishes including fish, chicken and pasta dishes.
My score for the Chardonnay is also 18/20.
The alcohol is 13.88%
Seven Springs Syrah 2010 and Chardonnay 2010 can be bought at Wine Village, Hermanus. The Chardonnay is also available at Wine Concepts, Newlands. Both sell for R114.00 per bottle and can be ordered online.
Tags: alcohol, chardonnay, Hermanus, lime, Pinot Noir, Riana van der Merwe, sauvignon blanc, Seven Springs Vineyard, Stratford-upon-Avon, Summer, Syrah, Tim Pearson, Vaughan Pearson, wine, Wine Concepts, Wine Village
Posted in The Daily Tipple | No Comments »
Tuesday, August 30th, 2011
Huge thanks to Andre Morgenthal of Wines of South Africa, one of the initiators of The Best of Wine Tourism Tours, for the invitation to join tour operators, bloggers and media representatives on one of the tours. Also to Belinda Lamprecht, Cape Town co-ordinator for the Great Wine Capitals in Cape Town who capably pulled everything together.
The Great Wine Capitals Global Network is a network of nine major global cities in both the Southern and Northern hemispheres which share a key economic and cultural asset: their internationally renowned wine regions. One of the cornerstones of the Networks’ mission is the development of wine tourism across the Network. To promote wine tourism and reward excellence the Network established an international tourism awards program in which wineries can be judged in different categories. These are: Accommodation; Wine Tourism Restaurants; Architects and Landscapes; Art and Culture; Innovative Wine Tourism Experiences; Wine Tourism Services and Sustainable Wine Tourism Practices.
The motivation to offer the Best of Wine Tours (or farm trips) to Best of Wine Tourism Awards entrants was twofold: firstly, to reach a different audience as opposed to traditional media in order to create awareness of the Best of Wine Tourism Awards and Great Wine Capitals.
Secondly, to alert wineries to the existence of this initiative, and to the value and promotional opportunities it offers, not only through possibly winning a category, but also the extended exposure via social media. These WOSA tours are unique to South Africa in the Network context and were met with applause by Cape Town’s counterparts at the CWCGN AGM last year.
Lynne and The Green Cab
The Green Cab Company was the tour transporter, an eco-innovation company which provides South Africa’s first cost-effective, aggressively green transport solution. They do this by utilising Liquified Petroleum Gas and BioDiesel.
Waterkloof Restaurant
Our first visit was to Waterkloof Wines, where the restaurant, tasting lounge and cellar are perched dizzily on the slopes of the Schaapenberg overlooking False Bay. The quality of wines here set an impossibly high standard to copy and were loved by each of us in the tour group. This farm has so much going for it not the least the fact that farming operations are bio-dynamic. I can’t wait to return to Waterkloof.
Panoramic views from Waterkloof restaurant
Hard at work - Jan Langenhoven, Di Procter, Kitty Snyman, Glenda van Blerk and Carla van der Merwe
Vergelegen Estate, Somerset West, welcomed us next in the form of wine host, Arnoux who outshone the other wine presenters of the day by far. He was passionate, engaging, knowledgeable and never in a rush to go and pour wine at the next table. Quite the opposite. He remained our host for our whole visit. Vergelegen offers innovative wine experiences and the “Camellia Inspired Tasting” was presented to us where four wines were thoughtfully paired with four Camellia blossoms. Vergelegen Estate has much to offer the visitor apart from award-winning wines. Things like garden tours, restaurants, picnics, barrel tastings, environmental walks and full moon vineyard walks.
Vergelegen Camellia Tasting
National Monument Camphor Trees
Our next wine tasting was at Rust en Vrede, Stellenbosch. What stands out about their wines is that they must have huge appeal for the wine collector who is purchasing wines to lay them down as they clearly need much time in the bottle to reach their full potential. Our wine presenter certainly knew her lines but seemed to lack interest and personal charisma.
Rust en Vrede
When I learned that tour lunch stop would be at Spier’s new organic food restaurant Eight, I was curious and excited. Our group was not disappointed – each dish ordered was delicious and of the highest quality plus Spier Private Collection Chenin Blanc was loved by all. Sitting close to the Eerste River in the beautiful Winter sunshine was such a treat. To get a feel for the light, airy feel of the setting, visit Eight’s Facebook page here. Spier offers many different attractions for visitors of all ages and backgrounds and deserves a place in the GWCGN hall of fame.
Eight at Spier
The open kitchen at Eight
Gershwin serving our table
The “dessert” stop was at The House of J C Le Roux for a sparkling wine, marshmallow and meringue pairing featuring five sparkling wines. Certainly innovative in their approach, the tasting room setting and products will be popular with trendy, Generation Y wine lovers.
The House of J C Le Roux
Sparkling wine, marshmallow and meringue tasting
Finally let me introduce my travel companions:
Kitty Snyman of Rufaro Travel. Twitter @kitty_rufaro
Carla Van Der Merwe of Wine.co.za. Twitter @carla_wino
Di Procter, writer of Wineblog-diana. Twitter @DiProc
Jan Langenhoven, writer of Tappets On The Run. Twitter @JanTappets
Tags: Accommodation, Andre Morgenthal, Architects, Belinda Lamprecht, bloggers, Cape Town, Carla Van Der Merwe, Di Procter, Eight, Great Wine Capitals Global Network, Green Cab Company, Innovative Wine Tourism Experiences, Jan Langenhoven, Kitty Snyman, Landscapes, Rufaro Travel, Rust en Vrede, Spier, Spier Private Collection Chenin Blanc, Sustainable Wine Tourism Practices., The Best of Wine Tourism Tours, The House of J C Le Roux, tour operators, Tourism, Vergelegen Estate, Waterkloof Wines, wine, Wine Tourism Restaurants, Wine.co.za, Wines of South Africa
Posted in What's New | 6 Comments »
Tuesday, June 21st, 2011
I never take for granted the gorgeous country that we live in and even less, our corner of
Woolworths Limited Release TMV Spectrum 2008
paradise on the banks of Zandvlei. It’s hard to think that today was the shortest day in the year, supposedly the middle of Winter, and we found ourselves enjoying the early sunset, on the jetty with our canine companions and pelagic birds, sipping another delectable South African wine.
Mostly we enjoy red wines but the glorious sunshine today called for a fresh white wine and Tullbagh Mountain Vineyards Spectrum was the perfect choice.
Tulbagh is a wine district in the Coastal Wine Region of South Africa, a valley enclosed by mountain ranges. TMV is run using a terroir driven approach and bio-dynamic farming methods, by Paul Nichols who tends the vineyards and Rebecca Tanner who is the cellar master.
Spectrum 2008 is a much lauded blend of Chenin Blanc 62%, Chardonnay 14% Grenach 9%, Rousanne 8% and Viognier 7%. The components were fermented seperately in old oak barrels and 600 liter Nomblot egg-shaped fermenters and only native yeasts were used. Malolatic fermentation was allowed and the wine was left on its lees without sulphur additions. After a year the wine was racked and blended. The result is natural richness and mouth feel as well as natural minerality. The palate is rich and complex with elegant layers of citrus, lime and vanilla flavours ending in a long, long finish.
Food matches are roast herb chicken or duck with orange or ginger sauce.
For me this is a superior quality wine and I rate it 19/20.
It has a screw cap and the alcohol content is 13.5%.
Tags: chardonnay, chenin blanc, Grenach, Nomblot fermenters, Paul Nichols, Rebecca Tanner, Rousanne, South Africa, Spectrum, Tulbagh Mountain Vineyards, Viognier, wine, Winter, Zandvlei
Posted in The Daily Tipple | 4 Comments »
Wednesday, June 15th, 2011
Yesterday evening, the warm north west wind was blowing which is always a sure sign that twelve to twenty-four hours later a serious Winter storm will blast the Cape Of Storms. We simply had to get down to our jetty to enjoy a glass of red wine and the full moon on this Indian Summer night.
Red wine substitute
After unpacking the wine cupboard and closely examining dozens of bottles of white wine we came to the realisation that we were clean out of red wine. Not even a bottle of plonk was on hand.
Then inspiration struck. After ransacking the not-to-be-disturbed, keep for a special occasion wine stash in the bedroom cupboard, two bottles of splendid red wine were unearthed – Steenberg Nebbiolo 2008 and Steenberg Catharina 2007 no less.
Sure, the Nebbiolo was to be relished at a future dinner party when I would serve it with osso buco to wine fundi friends and sure, we had decided that the Catharina was too young to be appreciated fully and needed more bottle maturation.
The decision as to what last night’s special occasion was, seemed too great for either of us to take.
Let lady luck decide – heads and we crack open the Nebbiolo, tails we make two mugs of hot chocolate.
Did the coin land on its side?
We drank our hot chocolate in silence in the balmy night air and then went to bed.
P.S. Watch this space for that Nebbiolo review.
Tags: Cape, Catharina, chocolate, hot, nebbiolo, red, Steenberg, storms, wine
Posted in The Daily Tipple | No Comments »
Tuesday, June 7th, 2011
Premier Stellenbosch producer, Jordan Wine Estate, has a second label, Chameleon, which seriously over-
Jordan Chameleon Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot 2008
delivers on price.
The Chameleon Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot 2008 has a bold nose with layers of leather, dark ripe fruit , cassis, mint and violet aromas. The tannins are soft and there is a long finish which leaves some mint flavours on the palate.
Slow cooked lamb will pair well with this Bordeaux blend especially if rosemary is used with the meat.
Available at Pick and Pay Constantia for R59.95 per 750 ml bottle or from cybercellar.com for R63.50.
I rate this wine 17/20 which translates to a superior wine.
Tags: Bordeaux, cabernet sauvignon, cassis, Chameleon, cybercellar, Jordan Wine Estate, leather, merlot, mint, Pick and Pay, Stellenbosch, wine
Posted in The Daily Tipple | No Comments »
Friday, May 27th, 2011
Don’t you just love Thierry and Guy’s hippo? This turned out to be a wine with an appealing label which followed through to the bottle contents. Like the hippo, they please with mouth-filling fatness.
Beautifully crisp with distinct lime and vanilla flavours to begin with, it stays on the palate for the longest time. South African Winemaker Francois Welch added quercus fragmentus, which I discovered are oak bits, during fermentation, and that gives the wine a butter fragrance.
Fat Bastard Chardonnay 2010
The Fat Bastard brand was begun by winemaker Thierry and Guy Anderson in Languedoc-Roussillon with a tiny production but today the Chardonnay, Shiraz, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon and Sauvignon Blanc wines are enjoyed on both sides of the pond and happily, at the bottom of Africa too. In South Africa the brand custodian is Robertson Winery which produces Fat Bastard Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay and Shiraz.
I found that it paired perfectly beautifully with itself but it also enhances gently flavoured risottos and pastas; salad starters which are dressed with mayonnaise; fresh oysters and simply cooked freshwater fish. In other words, dishes that can be overwhelmed by too much flavour in the glass.
Available at Pick and Pay, Constantia for R54.99 per bottle.
Also sold on Pick and Pay online shopping site.
My rating is 16/20 in other words a good quality, well made wine.
13.54% Alc0hol
RS 7.1
Ta 5.31
Ph 3.35
Serving temperature 8 – 10 degrees C
Tags: Africa, butter, cabernet sauvignon, chardonnay, Fat Bastard, fermentation, fish, Francois Welch, Guy, hippo, Languedoc-Roussillon, lime, mayonnaise, merlot, oak, oysters, pasta, Pinot Noir, quercus fragmenuts, risottos, Robertson, Robertson Winery, sauvignon blanc, shiraz, South African, Thierry, vanilla, wine
Posted in The Daily Tipple | 5 Comments »
Thursday, December 2nd, 2010
Two rare wines crafted exclusively for the 2010 Nedbank Cape Winemakers Guild Auction, have been given the “high five” by the 2011 Platter’s South African Wine Guide.
Cape Winemakers Guild Auction
This year’s Guild Platter 5-star wines, Le Riche Cabernet Sauvignon Auction Reserve 2007 and the acclaimed white blend, Steenberg Vineyards The Magus 2009, are amongst the 19 Platter 5-star wines crafted by members of the Cape Winemakers Guild listed in the 2011 guide.
Etienne le Riche, legendary Cabernet Sauvignon specialist and founder member of the Cape Winemakers Guild, hand selected the grapes personally from one of his prime vineyard sites for his 5-star wine which spent 24 months in new French Oak barrels. He describes the wine as vibrant with fresh, ripe cherry fruitiness and well integrated classic spiciness. The “classy” palate is full and rich, supported by a firm yet fine tannin structure ending in a long finish. This wine fetched on average R3 500 a case of six at the Guild auction.
John Loubser’s renowned white blend of Sauvignon blanc and Semillon was fermented separately in old French oak barrels to capture maximum fruit whilst lees contact for eight weeks enhanced the mouth-feel. Wild and herbaceous with piercing mineral notes, this wine is a true reflection of cool terroir and will age wonderfully with careful cellaring. Its full, vibrant palate with hints of passion fruit and tangerine is elegantly balanced by subtle smokiness. Steenberg Vineyards The Magus 2009 went under the hammer at an average price of R1 400 a case of six at the Guild Auction.
Herewith the full list of 19 5-star wines made by Guild members featured in the 2011 Platter’s South African Wine Guide:
Etienne Le Riche
Cabernet Sauvignon
· Boekenhoutskloof 2008 (Winemaker: Marc Kent)
· Kanonkop 2007 (Winemaker: Abrie Beeslaar)
· Le Riche CWG Auction Reserve 2007 (Winemaker: Etienne le Riche)
Grenache
· Neil Ellis Vineyard Selections 2008 (Winemaker: Neil Ellis)
Pinotage
· Beyerskloof Diesel 2008 (Winemaker: Beyers Truter)
Shiraz
· De Trafford 2008 (Red Wine of the Year) (Winemaker: David Trafford)
· Haskell Pillars 2008 (Winemaker: Rianie Strydom)
· Rijk’s Private Cellar 2005 (Winemaker: Pierre Wahl)
Red Blends
· Ernie Els Signature 2007 (Winemaker: Louis Strydom)
· Graham Beck Ad Honorem 2007 (Winemaker: Pieter Ferreira)
· Hartenberg The Mackenzie 2007 (Winemaker: Carl Schultz)
· Spier Frans K. Smit 2006 (Winemaker: Frans Smit)
Sauvignon Blanc
· Graham Beck Pheasants’ Run 2010 (Winemaker: Pieter Ferreira)
Chardonnay
· Groot Constantia Gouverneurs 2009 (Winemaker: Boela Gerber)
White Blends
· Cape Point Isliedh 2009 (Winemaker: Duncan Savage)
· Steenberg Magna Carta 2009 (Winemaker: John Loubser)
· Steenberg CWG Auction Reserve The Magus 2009 (Winemaker: John Loubser)
Méthode Cap Classique
· Villiera Monro Brut 2005 (Winemaker: Jeff Grier)
Port
· Boplaas Cape Vintage Reserve 2008 (Winemaker: Carel Nel)
The Cape Winemakers Guild comprises some of South Africa’s most respected winemakers with the single minded vision to elevate the standing of the South African wine industry amongst the world’s best through their ongoing dedication to the production of world-class, quality wines.
For the comprehensive list of all of the 5 star wines visit wine.co.za.
Tags: 2011 Platters South African Wine Guide, Beyerskloof, Boekenhoutskloof, Boplaas, Cape Point Vineyards, De Trafford, Ernie Els, Graham Beck, Groot Constantia, Hartenberg, Haskell, Le Riche, Neil Ellis Vineyard, South Africa, Spier, Steenberg, Villiera, wine
Posted in What's New | No Comments »
Tuesday, November 16th, 2010
The Nedbank Cape Winemakers Guild Development Trust has invested a record amount of over R500 000 this year in social upliftment, scholarship and mentorship programmes for aspiring winemakers. The projects were funded predominantly by the R483 000 raised at various CWG auctions during the year, which included a generous donation of R100 000 from Nedbank.
Tamsyn Jeftha and Sacha Claassen
The primary focus of the Development Trust is the Protégé programme, introduced in 2007 to bring about transformation in the wine industry. This year the programme supported three protégés, namely Praisy Dlamini in her final year of the internship and more recent recruits Sacha Claassen from Oudtshoorn and Tamsyn Jeftha from Strand.
These protégés are nurtured through a three year internship programme after the completion of their winemaking studies at Elsenburg College or Stellenbosch University. This valuable mentorship experience of working alongside some of the country’s finest winemakers at different wineries, is designed ultimately to equip the protégés to become producers of excellent wines themselves.
Howard Booysen, the first protégé to complete the internship programme, helped to raise R36 000 for the Guild’s Development Trust this year by putting up seven cases of the first wine under his own private label, the Howard Booysen 2010 Weisser Riesling, at various Guild charity auctions.
The Nedbank CWG Development Trust is also instrumental in providing finance for infrastructure projects at local schools, school tuition fees and bursaries for potential protégé students. This year five boys at Landbouskool Boland Agricultural College received scholarships covering their full school fees and boarding costs. The Trust also paid the school fees of two girls at Bloemhof in Stellenbosch, one of whom hopes to study winemaking next year.
In addition, two final year viticulture and oenology students at Elsenburg College received financial support through the Protégé Bursary Scheme, which is funded through AGRISeta grants.
Nedbank and the CWG established the Development Trust in September 1999 after recognising the social investment responsibility that the South African corporate sector has with regard to the wider community.
The ongoing support of the Nedbank Cape Winemakers Guild Development Trust demonstrates Nedbank’s desire to make a meaningful contribution to the communities in which we operate and to bring about meaningful change in the wine industry,
says Mike Brown, Nedbank Group Chief Executive.
The Trust is wholly funded by donations and proceeds raised through silent and charity auctions at various Guild events throughout the year. The Guild’s annual auction, the country’s biggest public wine auction of collector’s wines all crafted exclusively by Guild members, also has a strong charity focus in support of the various Development Trust programmes.
Every year a very special charity item is auctioned off to raise funds for the Nedbank Cape Winemakers Guild Development Trust. This year’s annual CWG auction item, a unique 12-litre bottle of wine comprising a blend of top 2007 vintage wines from all 41 members of the Cape Winemakers Guild, fetched R16 000.
Tags: Cape Winemakers Guild, Elsenburg, Elsenburg College, Howard Booysen, Nedbank, Praisy Dlamini, Sacha Claassen, Stellenbosch, Tamsyn Jeftha, wine
Posted in What's New | No Comments »
Wednesday, September 29th, 2010
The Threesome is a non-vintage, sensual blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and Merlot.
The Threesome
This low alcohol, easy drinking tipple gets away from the fruit forward style. Instead it has acidity as its backbone yet is beautifully balanced. Nosing it we found spearmint fragrances and on the palate restrained fruit. We happily drink this as an aperitif sitting on the jetty watching the sun go down.
Any ideas about food pairing? Let us know what your experience is.
Its affordable at only R50.00 per bottle from the cellar in Heritage Square, Cape Town.
Tags: cabernet sauvignon, Cape Town, Heritage Square, merlot, Signal Hill Winery, Syrah, wine
Posted in The Daily Tipple | 2 Comments »
Tuesday, September 21st, 2010
Tucked away in the beautifully restored 18th century town houses of Heritage Square is Signal Hill Winery, bringing South African wine making back into the city of Cape Town where it began so long ago.
Jean Vincent Ridon and Kyle Anthony Zulch
Jean Vincent Ridon, winemaker of renown and famous for growing vines in Clos Montmartre, the unique Paris vineyard, was inspired to replant vines in the Cape Town city center and so Clos d’Oranje at the foot of Table Mountain was established with ungrafted Syrah vines. Other tiny suburban vineyards are in Camps Bay and Kalk Bay and the Mourvedre, Syrah and Cabernet Franc from these vines are crafted into classy wines in Heritage Square.
The oldest producing vine in the Southern Hemisphere is thriving in the Heritage Square courtyard thanks to the loving care of Kyle Zulch, winemaker and co-owner. Almost destroyed by powdery mildew, this beautiful old Crouchen Blanc vine can produce about 20 liters of wine. The 2008 vintage made 4 magnums and twelve 750ml bottles which were auctioned off to raise money for the Zip Zap Circus. Probably planted in 1771, the first landlord of the townhouses wrote in his 1785 journal about, “Drinking wine under the grape tree”.
Also part of the winemaking team since 2001 is Laurence Buthelezi . Originally from Kwazulu Natal, Laurence followed his brother to the Cape Winelands to work with him. Trained in Burgundy, Laurence relates how he first became aware of wine during church communion services and today finds learning exciting.
Laurence Buthelezi in the tiny winery
Signal Hill Winery can well be called Cape Town’s Winery with a niche market and close connection to the consumer. Any kind of wine event can be arranged in partnership with the restaurants of Heritage Square such as Caveau, Africa Café or Simply Asia.
The extensive range of wines are made with a sensitive approach to the environment by using only recycled glass bottles as well as recycled paper labels. This has even resulted in a reduction in the price of wines .
One of my favourites is the Grenache Blanc 2008 , the only in South Africa, made in an elegant old-world style. Sexy Threesome of Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and Merlot is easy drinking and very French.
Follow Signal Hill Winery on Facebook or book a special tasting on 021-422 5206.
Tags: Africa Cafe, cabernet franc, cabernet sauvignon, Camps Bay, Cape Town, Caveau, Clos d'Oranje, Clos Montmartre, Crouchen Blanc, Grenache Blanc, Heritage Square, Jean Vincent Ridon, Kyle Zulch, Laurence Buthelezi, merlot, Mourvedre, Paris, Signal Hill Winery, Simply Asia, South Africa, Southern Hemisphere, Syrah, Table Mountain, wine, winelands, Zip Zap Circus
Posted in What's New | 2 Comments »
Thursday, September 9th, 2010
We have to report that what is posted on the Facebook page of Blue Water Cafe is true.
Why would you want to eat pizza anywhere else?
Found in the original, Cape Dutch homestead of a farm on Slangkop Ridge which was established to provide fresh food to sailors ages ago, the cafe boasts beautiful surroundings and peaceful ambiance. The ornamental peacocks are amazing and the chickens pecking between the tables, pretty but stupid.
The rustic pizzas on paper-thin bases are delicious and over deliver on price. What a surprise to find fresh spinach instead of the usual frozen substitute. The seafood pizza has to be the best around. No skimping on the filling and beautifully adorned with prawns and mussels in their shells.
Imhoff Farm is a great family destination with lawns where the kids can dash about or tree climb The Magic Faraway Tree or visit the animal farm. Sunday’s are the busiest day so book ahead for a meal or be like us and visit mid week.
Old Cape Wine Shop
Tags: Blue Water Cafe, Facebook, kitchen, pizza, shop, Slangkop Ridge, wine
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Monday, September 6th, 2010
Another benefit of South Africa hosting the 2010 FIFA World Cup was the launch in June, of Google Street View for maps.google.co.za. Using 360 degree street-level images taken by the Google cars and trikes, Street View allows users to view and navigate through South African streets, gardens and past historic buildings. Says Julie Taylor, Communications Manager for Google South Africa:
Rustenberg Manor House
The local launches of Google Maps and Street View reflect Google’s investment in South Africa, as well as our commitment to making the Internet more useful and relevant to South Africans. Street View also shows South Africa’s heritage to the world, ranging from the iconic winelands to the Kruger National Park.
A world first is that Cape winelands images are featured on Street View. Right now it is possible to visit via Street View: Bouchard Finlayson, De Rust Estate, De Wetshof, Fairview, Jordan Wines, Klein Constantia, Meerlust, Morgenster, Rustenberg, Vilafonte Vineyards and Warwick Wine Estate.
South African wine connoisseur, Juliet Cullinan, commenting on Street View and the growing importance of digital technology within South Africa’s wine industry, says:
Wine-lovers all over the world can now visit the estates of some of our leading wine domains using Street View, plan their own wine routes and buy online. As the world’s first vineyards to be placed on Street View, South African wineries will receive great exposure and can take advantage of this new technology in innovative ways, whilst expanding tourism and their global and local customer base.
The scope for improving the online presence of wineries is huge as Richard Cheary of Afrozaar explained:
There are so many ways wine farms can utilise geo products, including the creation of virtual wine route tours, incorporating video and interviews; mobile applications, comprising travel directions and preloaded tourist information; and online bookings with specific requests.
Soon to be added to Street View are Ataraxia Wines, Boekenhoutskloof Winery, Constantia Glen, Glen Carlou, Groote Post, Hamilton Russell, Iona Wines, Journey’s End, Kaapzicht, Le Riche, Mont Du Toit, Mooiplaas, Ormonde Vineyard, Raka, Rickety Bridge, Robertson Winery, Saronsberg, Strandveld, Thelema Mountain Vineyards, Vergelegen, Villiera and Weltevrede.
Using Google Street View
In areas where Street View is available, you can see the images on Google Maps (on a PC or Internet-enabled mobile) by zooming into the lowest level, or by dragging the orange “Pegman” icon on the left-hand side of the map onto a blue highlighted street.
Google has gone to lengths to safeguard privacy while allowing all South African users to benefit from this feature. Street View only contains imagery that is already visible from public roads and features technology that blurs both faces and licence plates. In addition, any user can easily flag images for removal that he or she considers inappropriate by clicking on “Report a problem”. South Africa is the first country in Africa to get Street View imagery in Maps. Street View first launched in 2007 and is currently available in 23 countries and 100 metropolitan areas worldwide, including large areas of the US, Australia, Japan, France, Italy and Spain.
To learn more about Street View, visit www.google.co.za/streetview
Tags: Afrozaar, Atraxia Wines, Australia, Boekenhoutskloof, Bouchard Finlayson, Constantia Glen, De Rust Estate, De Wetshof, Fairview, France, Glen Carlou, Google Street View, Groote Post, Hamilton Russell, Iona Wines, Italy, Japan, Jordan wines, Journeys End, Julie Taylor, Juliet Cullinan, Kaapzicht, Klein Constantia, Kruger National Park, Le Riche, Meerlust, Mont Du Toit, Mooiplaas, Morgenster, Ormonde Vineyards, Rake, Richard Cheary, Rickety Bridge, Robertson Winery, Rustenberg, Saronsberg, South Africa, Spain, Strandveld, Thelema Mountain Vineyards, US, Vergelegen, Vilafonte, Villiera, Warwick Wine Estate, Weltevrede, wine
Posted in What's New | 3 Comments »
Wednesday, August 4th, 2010
The winery was founded in 1945 on land near Stellenbosch which was first planted with grapes in 1707 by early viticulturists. 1707 Was significant because it marked the release of the first political prisoner in South Africa. It was also the first time that the term “Afrikaner” was used when a certain Hendrik Beerman called himself this, while riding through the streets of Stellenbosch after a heavy, brandy-drinking session.
PG Slabbert, Cellarmaster at Stellenbosch Hills and Sonja Burger, features writer for Farmer's Weekly, celebrating the new release
In the early years from 1945 onwards, distilled wine for the production of brandy was made. What is interesting about this period is that the first affirmative action winemaker Abe Dawidse managed the cellar alongside the cellar master, Charlie Sparks.
These days PG Slabbert assisted by Juan Slabbert crafts mostly well priced wines from choice grapes supplied by 16 different farms, making Stellenbosch Hills effectively, a co-op. This does not mean that the winery cannot make sexy, boutique wines. To celebrate the anniversary, PG and his team have released the 1707 Reserve Duo.
The 1707 Reserve 2009 is a blend of Chardonnay, Semillon and Viognier. PG explains that the quality of Chardonnay grapes coming out of the Polkedraai Hills is superlative and an easy choice for the main cultivar. Viognier brings an aromatic quality to the blend while Semillon adds a round feel. The result is a buttery yet fresh wine which I found to be perfect. Even though the barrels used were new, they were only lightly toasted so that the blend is not over powering as I find often happens with white blends which have had oak treatment. Definitely a great food wine.
Stellenbosch Hills 1707 Reserve 2009
The companion wine is 1707 Reserve 2008, a blend of Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Vedot. This wine drinks beautifully right now but can be kept for up to 5 years. It paired well with a rich, cheesy Butternut, Spinach and Feta Rotolo.
The 1707 Duo can be bought at Checkers Retail Stores and at speciality wine shops for around R81.00 per bottle for the red blend and about R60.00 for the white. An absolute steal for these quality wines!
Tags: Afrikaner, Brandy, cabernet sauvignon, chardonnay, Juan Slabbert, merlot, Petit Vedot, PG Slabbert, Polkedraai Hills, Semillon, sexy, shiraz, South Africa, Stellenbosch, Stellenbosch Hills, Viognier, wine
Posted in Wine Tasting | No Comments »
Saturday, July 24th, 2010
Perhaps not many people know that Bastille Day commemorates the 14th July 1789 storming of the medieval fortress in Paris. The fall of this jail became a flash point of the French Revolution.
Alexandra Galindo & Andres Correa tasting Topiary wines
But that did not stop thousand of Cape Townians and tourists alike from revelling in the Franschhoek sunshine at the Franschhoek Bastille Festival 2010, the 16th celebration of this event.
Football fans, Alexandra Galindo from Chile and Andres Correa from Columbia, stayed on after the 2010 FIFA World Cup to discover the Western Cape and to improve their English. They had read about the Franschhoek festival on a local website and we met them while sipping Topiary wines in the Food and Wine Marquee. Alexandra had only good things to say about the Shiraz 2006 and the Rose that were on offer for tasting.
Topiary Wines, not surprisingly, is named for viticulturist, Malcolm Pemberton’s sculpted garden on the property in Franschhoek. This new boutique winery produces a Methode cap classique and a Rose wine, as well as Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon-Shiraz, Chardonnay and Chenin Blanc varietal wines.
Protea wines stand
For me a super discovery in the Food and Wine Marquee was the new second label of Antonij Rupert Wines, The Protea Range, consisting of Sauvignon Blanc 2009, Chenin Blanc 2009, Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 and Merlot 2007. What is remarkable about this range is that they are made to the same high standard as the L’Ormarins and Anthonij Rupert wines but retail at under R50.00 per bottle. They are available locally at Ultra Liquor Stores, Vaughn Johnson’s Wine Shop, Wine Concepts and at Picardi Liquor Stores.
The barrel rolling race drew us out into the sunshine again. South Africa had promised to roll out the barrel for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, but you haven’t seen anything quite like this Franschhoek Wine Route competition where 16 wine farms compete for the trophy. Although the challenge is thrown out each year to the other wine routes to compete, none take up the challenge. An investigation by our specialist team led to an embarrassing reason for this – the maturation containers of Stellenbosch Wine Route farms are square. Come on guys – prove us wrong on this one and take up the challenge in 2011!
Reigning champ, Glenwood, fell in the quarter finals and Franschhoek Cellars took the trophy.
With or without a festival, Franschhoek has everything to offer as a mini-break destination or a day out. Enter the valley and you could be a world away.
Barrel rolling competition
Tags: 2010 FIFA World Cup, Antonij Rupert, Bastille Day, cabernet sauvignon, Cape Town, chardonnay, chenin blanc, Franschhoek Bastille Festival 2010, Franschhoek Cellars, French Revolution, Glenwood, L'Ormarins, Methode cap classique, Paris, Picardi Liquor Stores, Protea Range, Rose, shiraz, Stellenbosch Wine Routes, Ultra Liquor, Vaughn Johnson Wine Shop, Western Cape, wine, Wine Concepts
Posted in What's New | 2 Comments »
Wednesday, July 21st, 2010
Some UK Big Issue vendors are affronted by South African wine producer, Fairhills, which has sponsored the new high-visibility red vests worn by street sellers of the magazine.
The Big Issue vendor
One of them is Matthew Blackman, 40, who sells the The Big Issue in the Bristol city center and commented,
It’s disgusting because most of us vendors are either drug addicts or alcoholics. To be sponsored by a company that profits from that seems wrong.
They are making a big mistake. Even though they are being paid a lot of money it’s still bad publicity. It’s like some bad, ironic joke.
A more balanced view is expressed by Steve, a vendor in Bath who says,
I am a bit annoyed to hear that a wine company will be sponsoring the jackets as a lot of the vendors have an alcohol dependency.
If it is helping the Big Issue then it is important but I think the company should provide some kind of support to vendors on how to get off the alcohol.
Fairhills wine company is not called that for nothing. They are Fair Trade producers; have supported alcohol abuse treatment centers in South Africa for many years and are opening a center in England to assist alcoholics kick the habit.
Bernard Fontannaz, owner of Origin Wine addressed the controversy by explaining,
That is all good to do it here in South Africa, where the needs are big, but we wanted to contribute, as well, in countries where we sell our wines. As we all know the Cape does not have the monopoly on alcohol related abuse.
In order to do so we thought that, by sponsoring the Big Issue sellers, and in doing so helping them in their task to sell more and make a decent living, we will contribute to help people who fall out of the track sometimes due to alcohol abuse.
I do believe that we are acting responsibly and, in fact, are trying to be consequent with our involvement in the alcohol industry. We are a stakeholder in it and we need to assume responsibility for the good and the bad.
What the 60,000 pound deal means is that The Big Issue sellers will be more visible and easily recognized resulting in increased sales and hopefully, a speedier repatriation into society.
This can only be good.
Postscript
The recovery center is in fact in South Africa and not in England as I thought.
For more about it visit http://worldoffairhills.wordpress.com/
Tags: alcoholics, Bath, Bernard Fontannaz, Bristol, Drug addict, England, Fairhills, Origin Wine, South Africa, The Big Issue, Uk, wine
Posted in What's New | 4 Comments »
Wednesday, July 14th, 2010
Postscript:
This beautiful wine is selling for only R59.95 per bottle at Woolworths Blue Route right now.
Allan Mullins does it again.
Chateau Les Traverses 2006
As a Cape Wine Master and the wine selector for the major South African retailer, Woolworths, he is able to offer a range of wines across all pricing points, from the easy-drinking to the complex and sophisticated special wines. Apart from the local wines available, Allan has procured international wines like Barolo classic Piedmont reds, Lambrusco Rosso Perle Wine, and Vignavecchia Chianti Classico from Tuscany, Cotes Du Rhone Red Wine, several from Bordeaux and wines from Portugal and Spain.
We were thrilled to pick up Chateau Les Traverses 2006 from the Medoc, Bordeaux for the extraordinary price of only R100.00 ($13) Most of the international wines in the range cost less than R100.00.
On the nose this wine did not make me think that it is old world in style at all and reminded me of some of the premium South African wines that we enjoy. Is this an indication of the high standard of Cape Town wines? There are leather and blackberry notes. On the palate the wine is dry to begin with but tastes of ripe plum after a bit. We found it be elegant and smooth.
If you are a lover of French wine but only have a South African budget, bust the bank and stock up while you can.
Tags: Allan Mullins, Bordeaux, Cape Town, Chateau Les Traverses 2006, French, Medoc, Portugal, South African, Spain, wine
Posted in The Daily Tipple | 3 Comments »
Wednesday, July 7th, 2010
2010 Is the year of celebrations. As the thrill of the 2010 FIFA World Cup subsides, celebrate freedom in the Franschhoek Wine Valley.
Franschhoek Bastille Festival
It was here that the French Huguenots sought freedom from European persecution. Close by is the Drakenstein Prison (formerly Victor Verster Prison) from which the iconic South African leader, Nelson Mandela, was released from prison exactly 20 years ago.
The Franschhoek Bastille Festival offers something for everyone and at the heart of the festival will be the Food and Wine Marquee. For R100.00 ($13) per person you will receive a tasting glass and a 5 coupon book for food and wine tasting. After that it is pay as you go. To be tasted and sipped at the Food and Wine Marquee are food and wines from - Akkerdal Wine Estate; Allee Bleu Restauant; Allee Bleu wines; Angels Tears wines; Anthonij Rupert Wines; Bellingham wines; Boekenhoutskloof wines; Boschendal Cellar Door; Bread & Wine Restaurant; Cabriere wines; Chamonix spring water; Dieu Donne Restaurant; Dieu Donne Vineyards; Franschhoek Cellar; Franschhoek Pass Winery; French Connection Bistro & The Grill Room; Glenwood wines; Graham Beck Wines; Grande Provence Wines; The Restaurant at Grande Provence; Haute Cabriere Cellar Restaurant; Ci at La Quartier Francais; La Bri Estate; La Motte wines; L’Ermitage; Lynx wines; Monneaux Restaurant; Mont Rochelle Hotel, Mont Rochelle Vineyards; Moreson; Plaisir de Merle wines and Reubens Restaurant and bar.
This will be a sumptuous opportunity to experience all of these producers in one afternoon. The Food and Wine Marquee will open on both days from 12h00 – 17h00.
A Franschhoek Minstrel Parade, a barrel-rolling contest and a waiters’ race will keep us entertained. Alternately try your hand at a game of boules.
Also part of the festival will be a farmers market, childrens’ activities and a film festival where screenings will take place at La Quartier Francais.
Several accommodation establishments will be offering special deals and here are some of them:
Mont Rochelle Hotel and Mountain Vineyards
Rates start at R999.00 ($130) per person sharing per night for a luxury room as well as a day ticket for entry to the Food and Wine Marquee plus transfers from the hotel. A three-course gourmet dinner at Mange Tout Restaurant, full breakfast and in-room treats such as fresh fruit and Huguenot chocolates are included in the price.
To book phone 021-8762770 or email info@montrochelle.co.za
5* L’Ermitage Franschhoek Chateau and Villas
Rooms cost R1200.00 ($156) for a single room and R2000.00 ($260) per double room per night. This includes a ticket to the Food and Wine Marquee and shuttle transfer.
For bookings phone 021-8769200 or email ester@lermitage.co.uk.
Le Franschhoek Hotel and Spa
From 12 – 18th July rooms will cost R2000.00 ($260) per night and include a 3 course dinner and breakfast.
To book phone 021-8768900
The festival programme is here:
Saturday 17 July
08h00 – 17h00: Pierre Jourdan SPCA Boules Tournament (Church Grounds)
10h00 – 17h00: The French Corner Market in the Town Hall
12h00 – 17h00: The Bastille Food and Wine Marquee
13h00: The Waiters’ Race (at the Food and Wine Marquee)
14h00: Porcupine Ridge Barrel Rolling Competition (at the Food and Wine Marquee)
18h30: Movies by MINI at the Screening Room at Le Quartier Francais
OFFICIAL AFTER PARTIES at Col’Cacchio and Elephant & Barrel.
Sunday 18 July
08h00 – 17h00: Pierre Jourdan SPCA Boules Tournament (Church Grounds)
09h30: Bastille Festival MTB Outride (meet at the Hugeunot Monument – R30)
10h00 – 17h00: The French Corner Market in the Town Hall
12h00 – 17h00: The Bastille Food and Wine Marquee
14h00: Porcupine Ridge Barrel Rolling Competition (at the Food and Wine Marquee)
18h30: Movies by MINI at the Screening Room at Le Quartier Francais
19h00: Queenie 2000 (the play) A story of 7 beggars and their struggle for survival. At the Town Hall. Cost: R15 per ticket.
Tags: 2010 FIFA World Cup, Akkerdal Wine Estate, Allee Bleu, Anthonij Rupert Wines, Bellingham, Boekenshout, Boschendal, Bread & Wine, Cabriere, Chamonix, Dieu Donne Vineyards, Drakenstein Prison, Franschhoek Bastille Festival 2010, French Connection Bistro, Glenwood wines, Graham Beck Wines, Grande Provence Wines, La Bri Estate, La Motte, La Quartier Francais, Lynx wines, Monneaux Restaurant, Monte Rochelle Hotel, Moreson, Nelson Mandela, Plaisir de Merle, Reubens Restaurant, South Africa, Victor Verster Prison, wine
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