Tasting Notes – South African Wines – 12.28.2024

Time: 2:00 PM ~ 4:00 PM

presented by Andrew Woolgar of Elephants Corners Imports

Chamonix Blanc de Blancs ~ 2021

Founded in 1991 at the dawn of the new era for South African wine, Chamonix is situated on Franschhoek’s cool southwest-facing mountain slopes and is recognized as one of the region’s finest producers of a diverse range of wines. More than 400-600 meters above sea level, our vineyards flourish on the slopes of the Mont Rochelle Mountains.
Appellation: Franschhoek, South Africa

Grapes: Chardonnay 100% – ABV 12%

Tasting notes: Made exclusively from Chardonnay, this bottle-fermented Cap Classique expresses a vivacious and bright flavor profile given layered complexity through 18 months of lees-contact. Riveting green apple and brioche feature on the palate.
Pairings: Great companion to shellfish, appetizers, and snacks, or an aperitif.
Producer: Chamonix Estate

LOST BOY Rosé Brut ~ 2022

Where the Indian and Atlantic oceans collide, frigid winds from Antarctica fight the African sun to create the region’s only proper cool-climate appellation. Nestled amongst the fynbos on the rocky peaks, just a handful of kilometers from the sea, our vines are cultivated in a variety of soil types from sand to iron-rich ferricrete. Youthful, vibrant, and uniquely South African – these small-batch wines are Beaujolais-inspired with a New World flair. This is a true Cap Classique.

Appellation: Coastal Region, South Africa

Grapes: Pinot Noir 100% – ABV 12.5%
Tasting notes: All the zesty, elegant, fruity expressiveness you’d expect in a LOST BOY rosé brut with a nose of raspberry, ripe melon, and strawberry cream. Red fruits, watermelon, and subtle brioche notes.
Producer: Lost Boy Wines [only 500 bottles]

Grondpad Chenin Blanc ~ 2022

Grondpad (Afrikaans) translates to: “Gravel Road”. A road forcing you to travel slower which gives you time to experience life in full. A road less traveled, filled with real stories. Often stories of hardship. This term is taken to heart in the making of wine.

Appellation: Banhoek Valley, South Africa

Grapes: Chenin Blanc 100% – ABV 13.5%
Tasting notes: Light, dry and acidic.

Pairings: Shellfish, spicy foods, lean fish, and soft/mild cheeses.
Producer
: Banghoek Valley Vineyards

Post House Penny Black ~ 2021

The name refers to the first-ever stamp, printed in 1840. This was a British stamp featuring the head of Queen Victoria, was worth one penny, and was printed in black hence the nickname Penny Black. Although it is officially the first stamp it is not the rarest stamp as its print run lasted for a decade, so many millions were produced. However, there were many color variations and misprints. These individual Penny Blacks have much more value.
Appellation: Helderberg Region, South Africa
Grapes:  Shiraz 32%, Merlot 27%, Cabernet Sauvignon 27%, Petit Verdot 7%, Chenin Blanc 7% – ABV 15%
Tasting notes: Dark inky black color. Initial nose of floral petals, also of fynbos (South African heath), blackcurrant, fruitcake, white pepper, and spice. Rounded tannins and ample fruit result in a layered and complex wine.
Pairings: Pairs well with grilled meats, especially lamb and spiced meat dishes.
Aging: May cellar 8-12 years
Producer: Post House Vineyards