STELLENBOSCH WINE ROUTES LAUNCH CAMPAIGN TO PLANT 1000 TREES AFTER STORM DAMAGE WREAKS HAVOC

Big Oak Tree at 170 Dorp street, Stellenbosch

The wineries of South Africa’s City of Oaks have embarked on a tree planting campaign in the wake of a devastating storm earlier this month. Under the leadership of Stellenbosch Wine Routes, a commitment has been made to plant over 1000 trees this year to restore the landscape which was dramatically affected for future generations. Preference is being given to Turkish, Pin and Water Oak trees.

The storm not only swept across the town and farmlands, but also led to a fire that razed the historic Manor House and Jonkershuis at Blaauwklippen, notable for its cultural heritage and architectural significance. The storm destroyed Stellenbosch’s oldest tree, a landmark on the corner of Dorp and Ryneveld Streets, planted more than 200 years ago, along with more than 200 trees throughout the town and on farms.

1812 Oak Tree

“Oak trees are synonymous with the Stellenbosch landscape,” says Chairman Michael Ratcliffe on behalf the Stellenbosch Wine Routes board. “Not only do they line the streets that bring thousands of local and international visitors every year, but their magnificent presence is at the heart of every local’s love for the place.”

Since its foundation in 1679, when Governor Simon van der Stel noted the valley’s “clear river… adorned with fine and lofty trees,” Stellenbosch has been home to some of the oldest living oaks in South Africa, marking it an important custodian of a rich history.

The planting of trees will take place in phases with contributions from Stellenbosch Wine Routes’ 130 members, including Kaapzicht, Taaibosch, Pink Valley and Le Chant, Remhoogte, Overgaauw and Kleine Zalze, each having already committed to plant 10 or more trees in the coming months.

Oldest Oak Tree, planted 1812 with Elanie Burger & Anel Rust

“We are co-ordinating all our members to join this effort in the lead up to South Africa’s National Arbor Week, from August 29 to September 4,” says Elmarie Rabe, General Manager of Stellenbosch Wine Routes.

Furthermore, the remnants of Stellenbosch’s historic oldest tree will be incorporated into an art installation to be erected in the heart of town and unveiled in October.

Significantly for the tree history of Stellenbosch, the Wine Routes’ tree planting campaign falls within the same month celebrating National Heritage Day.

For more information, visit www.wineroute.co.za or contact Stellenbosch Wine Routes on info@wineroute.co.za or 021 886 4310. Connect with @stellwineroute on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Plein Street in Stellenbosch, the City of Oaks

#ThinkQuality #DrinkStellenbosch #visitStellenbosch #WineBoscher

Issued by: ROUX REKLAME
Pictures: SUPPLIED & FACEBOOK

A WINE THAT LOVES TO LINGER – NEW VINTAGE RELEASE: 2019 LA MOTTE SYRAH

As the slow season starts, inviting us to slacken our pace a little, La Motte Wine Estate is delighted to introduce the recently released 2019 vintage of La Motte Syrah – a wine that, right on theme, loves to linger.

Slow out of the blocks during the picking season, the grapes for the 2019 La Motte Syrah originate exclusively from vineyards on the Franschhoek estate. Between 10 and 30 years old, the vineyards grow in a variety of soil profiles from sandstone and granite origin – heavier textured against the mountain slopes and sandier, well-drained in the valley. Different clones and microclimates with altitudes between 200 and 300 metre above sea level all contribute to the wine’s complexity. The reason it had such a slow start (as well as promising analyses with high acidity and low pH levels) was because of a relative cool beginning to summer. The 2019 Syrah harvest on La Motte was not only late, but also the smallest since 2005.

Picking up to a more regular tempo in the cellar, grapes were cooled overnight before being destemmed. The whole berries went into stainless steel tanks for fermentation between 24 and 28 degrees Celsius. Pump overs twice a day ensured proper aeration while most tanks were pressed before fermentation was completed to ensure elegance and soft extraction.

Matured in French oak barrels of which 30% were new, the regular 14-month maturation period for La Motte’s acclaimed Syrah was extended due to Covid, and the wine was allowed to linger in oak for a complete 24 months. Covid also affected stock levels and only the best batches of the leisurely 2019 vintage made their way into the final blend. With the finest selection, unhurried maturation, and the addition of 14% Durif, the 2019 La Motte Syrah has exceptional depth and complexity. The wine was bottled in November 2021 and only 2300 cases (6 x 750), and 140 magnums were released as 2019 La Motte Syrah.

In what is a beautiful balance of oak and fruit, blackberry flavours rendezvous with the subtle seduction of cigar and coffee and exciting spice notes of prominent nutmeg and aniseed. Despite the complexity of the nose, the palate is quite restrained with the elegance, finessed finish and lingering aftertaste this Syrah is renowned for. Cellarmaster Edmund Terblanche expects exceptional maturation of the 2019 vintage and suggests that it will continue to develop beautifully for the next 15 years.

He also believes the wine’s full-bodied character will harmonise beautifully with rich, flavourful dishes. An acclaimed, chargrill-loving partner to meat and vegetables, the fruitiness of the Syrah enjoys matching the sweetness of stewed fruit and marinades and enjoy an interesting play with aromatic spice components. Do try the 2019 La Motte Syrah with venison and pepper-crusted steaks, especially if you love fruit-and-spice condiments or chutneys.

Price:
The 2019 La Motte Syrah is available online or at the cellar door for R200 per bottle.

Analysis:
Alcohol 13.58%
Residual sugar 2.5 g/l
Total acidity 5.9 g/l
pH 3.41

Download Tasting Notes
Download Awards

Join the conversation on social media:

One of the perennial favourites at the annual Johannesburg Cap Classique, Champagne & Bubbles Festival is Pongrácz. 

This award-winning, iconic South African bubbly that was first released in 1990, in memory of Desiderius Pongrácz, a Hungarian aristocrat who, after 10 years as a war prisoner in Siberia, first returned to Hungary and then fled the country during the Hungarian revolt, first settling in Namibia before finding his final home in the South African Winelands.

Pongrácz had a significant impact on the introduction of international grape varieties such as Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir and is credited as one of the leading heads that helped to turn South African wines into the quality product they are today. He also lobbied the careful selection of the best vines in the vineyard as opposed to quantity harvesting. Tragically, he died in a road accident at the tender age of 61 but his memory lives on in the Cap Classiques made in his honour.

But what of the winemaker behind the Pongrácz brand?

Meet Matthys Botes, Worcester-born and bred and now living in Brackenfell with his wife Anel, whom he met at university, and their two children.

Ahead of this year’s Johannesburg Cap Classique, Champagne & Bubbles Festival which takes place on May 18 & 19 at the Inanda Polo Club in Sandton, we caught up with Botes to ask him a few questions.

Pongrácz winemaker Matthys Botes

Tell us about your journey to becoming a winemaker?

Growing up I spent many hours with my cousins in the vineyards of Rawsonville where my grandfather was a farm manager. I became fascinated with winemaking and viticulture, especially during the busy harvest time and although I had set my sights on becoming a paediatrician, the vines called out, so I studied Oenology and Viticulture at the University of Stellenbosch. After graduation I worked a few harvests at several Australian wine farms and returned to South Africa to complete my Master’s degree. I joined Distell (now Heineken Beverages) in 2001 in the research and development department as an experimental winemaker delving into the many different facets of wine, spirits and RTDs (ready-to-drink alcohol products sometimes referred to as alcopops). In 2007 I had the opportunity to intern at the family-run Spottswoode winery in California, specialising in small scale ultra-premium wines and environmentally friendly winemaking practices. Joining the Pongrácz team in 2019 as winemaker for their range of Cap Classiques.

Can you tell us about the five Pongrácz Cap Classiques that will be available for tasting and buying at the show?

First off, our popular Pongrácz Brut which is a timeless Cap Classique with great elegance and complexity. Crisp green apple notes and nuttiness of freshly baked bread are prevalent on the nose. On the palate, delicate yeasty tones, layered with toast and ripe fruit are enlivened by a firm mousse and persistent bead that make it particularly attractive. It imparts a wonderful foamy mouthful of blackberry fruit flavours with a long lingering aftertaste.

Then we have our equally popular Pongrácz Rosé, which delights the palate as much as the eye and evokes an air of romance with its delicate salmon pink hue. Delicate strawberry tones are layered with whiffs of baked bread. On the palate it is perfectly balanced with clean acidity and juicy blackberry fruit.

For those who like their bubbly a little sweeter, we have the Pongrácz Noble Nectar which is presented in a beautifully shaped purple-hued bottle. On the palate the velvety, creamy butter and citrus notes blend seamlessly with delicate bubbles, light yeasty aromas, crisp, juicy pears, and litchi.

The Pongrácz Nectar Rosé delights and evokes an air of romance with its delicate cherry blossom hue. Great complexity on the palate with lower alcohol and enhanced sweetness, strawberry and red berries, layered with nuances of spicy aromas and yeasty undertones. The firm mousse and persistent bead reveal wonderful red berry and spicy flavours, rounded off with a light yet lingering aftertaste.

And finally, our showstopper is the Desiderius, which comes handcrafted in a uniquely styled fluted bottle that epitomises elegance, quality and nobility. This magnificent Cap Classique encapsulates grace and exceptional character. It is alluring with a rich complexity and a slight green tint that teems with lively bubbles. Nuances of fresh fruit, almonds and rich buttery bread, delight the senses.

Pongrácz Desiderius

Which is your favourite and why?

Desiderius is my favourite, as the complex, rich, nutty, and yeasty aromas remind me of my grandmother’s kitchen where I spent many a day as a young boy helping her with her baking.

What dishes do they each pair well with?

The Pongrácz Brut is perfect for any occasion and is a superb partner to sashimi, oysters in a red onion vinaigrette or salads; the Pongrácz Rosé lends itself to rich duck confit and is a must with truffle and mushroom risotto; the Pongrácz Noble Nectar is gorgeous on its own or served with Marsala or Thai chicken curry, smoorsnoek parcels, duck spring rolls served with a quince and chilli jam as well as with desserts such as fresh strawberries, créme brûlée or tiramisu; the Pongrácz Nectar Rosé pairs fabulously with charcuterie and tapas, deli sandwiches, mildly spiced Asian dishes, roast pork, feta and spinach tartlets, seared salmon or tuna steak and if accompanying dessert, it is the perfect match for rose Turkish delight, panna cotta with vanilla and raspberry, strawberry meringues or even enjoyed with a Victoria sponge cake; and finally, the Desiderius which goes well with bitter dark chocolate, duck liver parfait and orange scented delights.

What do you like to do to relax when you’re away from the vineyards?

I love to spend time with the family and enjoy the outdoors and nature. I am fascinated by history books, movies and music, and never far away from appreciating good wine, great food and the company of friends.

Anything else you would like to add?

Pongrácz is the perfect Cap Classique to enjoy, from celebratory occasions to special gatherings or to simply elevate everyday moments. I hope visitors to the Johannesburg Cap Classique, Champagne & Bubbles Festival will stop by the Pongrácz stand to sample our five bubblies and choose a favourite for themselves!

Website: https://www.pongracz.co.za/

Issued by: JAG COMMUNICATIONS
Pictures: SUPPLIED 



© 2024 Herman Lintvelt - WineTourismZA

The Bistro at Brooksdale Estate will be celebrating moms with Mother’s Day lunch in the Paarl Winelands on Sunday, 12 May 2024.

Unlike most other restaurants offering set menus or buffets on Mother’s Day, the Bistro at Brookdale will present its popular a la carte menu to give diners the opportunity to choose their favourite dishes from the current seasonal menu, before Chef Gary Coetzee launches his new winter menu on 14 May 2024.

On arrival, toast Mom with a complimentary glass of the Serendipity Rosé, a delicious salmon-coloured rosé with aromas of cherries, strawberries and passion fruit, crafted by winemaker Kiara Scott Farmer. Book a wine tasting in the Brookdale Tasting Room before lunch to explore the full range of Brookdale’s exciting Mason Road wines, including the Chenin Blanc; Rosé, Syrah; and GSM red blend.

Franschhoek Wine Valley, renowned as South Africa's culinary capital, proudly announces its EAT SLEEP DRINK initiative in proud partnership with Dineplan. 

For epicureans indulging in the region's exquisite wines and culinary delights, the chance to extend their experience with discounted stays presenting an unmissable opportunity for all South African residents.

In another exciting first for Franschhoek and as part of their growing portfolio of successful event series, this winter campaign is poised to become an annual tradition, marking a new milestone in the region's culinary landscape. Hosted from June 14th to 28th, EAT SLEEP DRINK provides a perfect occasion to visit when the crowds have abated, while the vistas and charm of this historic village remain as alluring as ever.

Online bookings open on May 1st 2024 and are exclusively for dinner bookings, offering a discount of up to R300 per person and while availability holds. Additionally, those choosing to linger in the valley a little longer can enjoy a 20% discount on all direct accommodation bookings during this period by making mention of the ‘EAT SLEEP DRINK’ campaign when making a direct reservation with any of the participating accommodation establishments.

The participating establishments, revered icons in Franschhoek's culinary scene, require no introduction, being perennial favourites on the gourmet gold list. Proudly presenting a unique chance for locals to indulge in exceptional dining experiences with significant savings, there's no better time to secure your reservations for the below partner restaurants:

Arkeste
Café du Vin
Franks Corner
French Connection
La Petite Colombe
Epice
Maison Chefs Warehouse
Le Bon Vivant
L’Orangerie
Ōku
Reubens

Embark on a culinary odyssey like no other this June in Franschhoek, where each tantalizing bite, sip and swirl guarantees an unparalleled gastronomic adventure. Don't miss out on this opportunity to indulge in the region’s top cuisine and acclaimed wines.

Reserve your table and stay now, while treating yourself to an idyllic winter escape and a feast for the senses in Franschhoek.

For further information and bookings, please visit https://franschhoek.org.za/eat-sleep-drink/

Issued by: OPEN DOORS COLLECTIVE 
Pictures: SUPPLIED


© 2024 Herman Lintvelt - WineTourismZA

Winemakers from South Africa’s premier cool-climate winemaking region of Durbanville will unveil the latest vintage of its collaborative Sauvignon Blanc within days – and it’s a keeper!

As with its previous two iterations, the 2024 Durbanville Sauvignon Blanc pooled the champion talents of the region’s renowned wine growers and winemakers. 

As such, it has become a South African super Sauvignon Blanc with the 2024 release raising the bar yet again.

An optimal growing season ahead of harvest ensured fruit was at its very best. In turn, the wine not only shines immediately when poured but will continue to develop character during extended maturation.

Its first big public showing will be at the Durbanville Sauvignon Soirée on May 3 – appropriately, when the world celebrates International Sauvignon Blanc Day.

This year, a total of 10 wine farms contributed fruit from their best vineyards for its making.

The responsibility of making up the final blend revolves between contributors with Diemersdal – one of the country’s most innovative and awarded Sauvignon Blanc makers – taking over from predecessor De Grendel.

Fruit was received from Diemersdal and De Grendel as well as Bloemendal, D'Aria, Durbanville Hills, Groot Phesantekraal, Klein Roosboom, Maastricht, Meerendal and Nitida.

“We’re very excited about this wine,” says Diemersdal’s Juandré Bruwer, who undertook the blend with Mari Branders. “The grapes were in top condition with higher acids and a low pH – ideal for producing a Sauvignon Blanc of this calibre.

“It was a real privilege to make this wine,” he added.

The collaborative project was inspired from decades of consistent recognition for the Durbanville Wine Valley’s excellence. “The Durbanville Sauvignon Blanc was chosen as the ideal vehicle to tell the story of our region, the worldclass quality of our wines and the shared vision of producers,” says Durbanville Wine Valley manager Natasha de Villiers.

The region’s global reputation particularly for Sauvignon Blanc was underscored last year when it was chosen as one of the hosts for the Concours Mondial du Sauvignon - the first time in history that the Sauvignon Blanc-focussed championship was held outside Europe.

The 2024 Durbanville Sauvignon Blanc sells for R120 and is available for purchase from the participating wineries.

More about the Durbanville Sauvignon Soirée

The Durbanville Sauvignon Soirée promises an exclusive tasting journey through Durbanville’s cool climate valley.

Discover the ageability of this variety with a special showcase of international selections and Sauvignon Blanc SA’s official Top 10 Sauvignon Blancs from 2020.

The Durbanville Sauvignon Soirée will also offer the opportunity to be the first to taste the highly anticipated 2024 Durbanville Sauvignon Blanc.

Event and booking details

Date and time:         3 May, 17:00 - 20:00
Venue:                      Cassia, Nitida Wine Estate
Price:                        R250 pp
Book on Quicket:     https://qkt.io/QyQ9wF

The price includes the tasting of 10 different producers' Sauvignon Blanc; canapes by Cassia Restaurant; wines from France and Italy, and the Sauvignon Blanc Top 10; the Durbanville Sauvignon Blanc 2024 and live music.

To make a reservation for dinner at Cassia Restaurant, call: 021 976 0640.

For more information about Durbanville Wine Valley, visit www.durbanvillewine.co.za or send an email to info@durbanvillewine.co.za.

Tag and follow Durbanville Wine Valley to get the latest news about events. Use @DurbanvilleWine on Twitter and Facebook, Instagram.

Issued by: ROUX REKLAME
Pictures: SUPPLIED 

© 2024 Herman Lintvelt - WineTourismZA 

Severe weather conditions wreaking havoc in the Cape Winelands since the weekend took their toll on the extensive gardens at Tokara Wine Farm necessitating the postponement of the annual Rare Plant Fair and Autumn Open Garden.

The gale-force winds caused extensive damage to the private farm garden, especially the trees and walkways, leaving the terrain unsuitable for visitors before a full assessment can be made. The annual event, scheduled for later this month, will now take place on Saturday, 26 October 2024.

“The decision to postpone the event at Tokara was not made lightly, but was necessary due to the severe impact of the storm. The long-term damage to the trees in particular, requires a thorough assessment to guarantee the safety of our visitors. We understand the anticipation surrounding this event and share the disappointment of avid garden enthusiasts who look forward to visiting our gardens every year,” says Anne-Marie Ferreira, who is devastated that their magnificent farm garden was not spared by the storm.

The Tokara team eagerly anticipates welcoming devotees back to the farm garden in Spring.

For more information, visit www.rareplantfair.co.za

Issued by: GC COMMUNICATIONS

©2024 Herman Lintvelt - WineTourismZA 

A fire that broke out at the neighboring farm in the early hours of Sunday morning, has resulted in devasting destruction to some of Blaauwklippen Estate’s iconic buildings. 

The fire spread to the Manor House from the dam’s side, then to the Jonkershuis and eventually the Cathedral. All three buildings have burnt to the ground.

Six firefighting teams, including Blaauwklippen’s Disaster Management team together with neighbouring farms were on the scene within minutes to attend to the fire, one of five in the area. Battling winds of up to 139km per hour, thankfully there were no injuries although the destruction was devasting.

Stellenbosch’s oldest wine farm, dating back to 1682, the Jonkershuis was built in 1720, the Manor House in 1789 with the latest addition being the popular wedding venue, the Cathedral built in 2018.

It’s a sad day indeed for Blaauwklippen as heritage landmarks have been destroyed in the terrible blaze, but the sadness is made easier to bear by the gratitude that no lives were lost and we acknowledge the swift evacuation and heroic efforts of our personnel – Stefan, Chrisma and their teams, who ensured that no one was injured.

Due to safety reasons, the property will be closed to the public until further notice.

Before

Issued by: ON THE MARQUE PR & COMMUNICATIONS
Pictures: SUPPLIED & WINETOURISMZA




© 2024 Herman Lintvelt - WineTourismZA

The new vintage of South Africa’s icon port from Allesverloren has been unveiled. 

Allesverloren Cape Vintage

Deemed the must-have for drinks connoisseurs, the wine’s latest iteration re-affirms Allesverloren’s status as a shining light for premier quality.

With the launch of this 2020 vintage also comes a new name. The Allesverloren Fine Old Vintage now becomes Allesverloren Cape Vintage.

“We’re very excited about this latest edition,” says cellarmaster Danie Malan, 5th generation Malan at Allesverloren. “The extra maturation time afforded these wines prior to release means they’re always highly anticipated. The new name, however, aligns the wine in a way that will spur demand.”

The change is linked to the early 2000s ban on wines outside specific European areas using the name port. Wineries immediately adopted various names, but Cape Vintage has become the most widely recognised – in South African and internationally alike.

The Malan family

Throughout, Allesverloren’s commitment to building its legacy as the home of world-class port wine remained. It was under Danie’s father, Fanie, that Allesverloren imported the first Portuguese varieties for the exclusive purpose of making port-styled wines in South Africa.

That pioneering spirit subsequently led Allesverloren to become a champion of still, premium quality wines from these and other varieties too. Success has come from embracing innovation in the cellar while staying true to lessons learned over generations.

The status of Allesverloren port has given rise to a staunch following. At its heart, is recognition for the Malan’s consistent devotion to quality and shunning of passing trends. Allesverloren port has stood the test of time, and the Allesverloren Cape Vintage 2020 is the latest expression of this 150-year-old heritage.

Allesverloren farm

The wine was crafted from several varieties among the farm’s highest quality vineyards. These thrive in soils of Malmesbury shale that occur along the slopes of the Kasteelberg Mountain that is Allesverloren’s home. Once the grapes were harvested and vinified, the wine was fortified and matured in old oak barrels prior to bottling.

The result is a rich wine, deep ruby-red in colour with characters typical of elite port wines – dark, ripe fruit, raisins and fruitcake. The palate is velvet-smooth and lingering.

Allesverloren Cape Vintage is best enjoyed slightly chilled and pairs well with cheese and a variety of desserts. Great for the approaching cooler seasons, it also makes the perfect mix for a range of cocktails. Allesverloren Cape Vintage truly is an ideal, year-round drink.

Taste Allesverloren Cape Vintage 2020 and the rest of the farm’s range at its wine tasting room between Riebeek Kasteel and Riebeek West, open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm and Saturday from 9am to 3pm.

Allesverloren Cape Vintage truly is an ideal, year-round drink

Allesverloren’s wines are available across the country and via its online store at www.allesverloren.co.za.

For more information, call 022 461 2589.

Stay up to date with the winery by following @allesverloren on Facebook and @allesverlorenwine on Instagram or signing up to its newsletter via the website.

Issued by: ROUX REKLAME
Pictures: SUPPLIED 

© 2024 Herman Lintvelt - WineTourismZA 

After years of hard work and dedication in the fight to curb carbon emissions, the Perdeberg Group is now officially recognized as a Carbon Hero. 

Celebrate hope and togetherness at Vergenoegd Löw The Wine Estate in Stellenbosch this Easter (29 March to 1 April).

Enjoy special moments with family and friends, while savouring fine wine and delicious food, and taking in the breathtaking beauty and tranquil atmosphere of this historic farm that dates to 1696.

The culinary team has conceived a special Easter-inspired platter for two, brimming with locally-sourced cured meats, cheeses and fresh ingredients, and offered with a glass of Vergenoegd Löw wine per person, at only R360. These are available to order throughout the Easter weekend (walk-in visitors are welcome), but could also be pre-booked.

The culinary team has conceived a special Easter-inspired platter for two

Keep the kids entertained on Easter Sunday with an exciting Easter egg hunt between 11:00 and 12:00, at R150 per child.

Go to https://vergenoegd.co.za/product/easter-sunday to book. Please note, bookings for the Easter egg hunt closes on 27 March, so don’t delay!

For more on the estate’s regular offerings, please visit https://vergenoegd.co.za/.

Keep the kids entertained on Easter Sunday with an exciting Easter egg hunt between 11:00 and 12:00, at R150 per child.

Issued by: AUGUST COLLECTIVE

Pictures: SUPPLIED

©2024 Herman Lintvelt - WineTourismZA