presented by Andrew Woolgar of Elephants Corner Imports
Pilgrim Chenin Blanc ~ 2021
Pilgrim Wines is a small family-owned business with a passion for wine making. This wine was made from beautiful 35-year-old vines planted in decomposed sandstone and clay in the Voor-Paardeberg. There is great balance with a big length to this wine and a sense of age worthiness.
Appellation: Stellenbosch, South Africa
Grapes: 100% Chenin Blanc – ABV 12.5%
Tasting notes: Golden light yellow with a slight green tinge. It has sweeter notes and even some interesting earth tones, perfectly balanced. With sweet marmalade and bright pith on opposites, underpinned with a finely tuned tannin, and the acidity that remains is just enough to make this wine end off focused and long.
Pairings: Any dish with rich, deep flavors will be a superb pairing with this wine. Seafood dishes will also be a winner.
Producer: Pilgrim Wines
Dorrance Cinsault Rosé ~ 2023
Dorrance Wine’s credo is that of producing finely crafted wines in the French tradition. The range of this rosé is all about Freshness, balance and great drinkability. The Rose is a 100% Cinsault. The grapes are sourced from vineyards on granite soils in various parts of the Swartland.
Appellation: W.O. Swartland, South Africa
Grapes: 100% Cinsault – ABV 12.5%
Tasting notes: Smooth and elegant, this fresh wine is bursting with summer fruit flavors, complex and easily enjoyable at the same time. The nose of wild berries and fresh white peaches is complemented by a touch of spices.
Producer: Dorrance Wines
The Pope’s New Crib ~ 2023
The Pope’s New Crib is an English translation of a well-known wine growing region where Grenache noir is the best known. In 1309 the Pope moved the seat of the Roman Catholic church from Rome to Avignon, from where the next 7 Popes ruled before returning to Rome in 1378. It is from this that the name is derived.
Appellation: Onrusrivier, South Africa
Grapes: 100% Grenache noir – ABV 12%
Tasting notes: Vibrant youthful color, with notes of wild raspberries and red currants. Juicy mid palate with a refreshing and grippy finish.
Pairings: Can be enjoyed slightly chilled for those hotter than average South African summer days
Producer: Thiart Wines
Kloovenburg Merlot ~ 2021
In 1956, Kloovenburg was bought by two grandfathers, Du Toit and De Kock. In 1988, Pieter du Toit married Annalene, who shared in the philosophy: start small, work hard, and success will follow. In 1997, Pieter, his sons, and a few friends made Kloovenburg’s first wine, a Pinotage – only 200 bottles. In 1998, they made 10 tons of Shiraz and 10 tons of Pinotage using another facility. In 2000, Pieter built the cellar and made his wine and never looked back.
Appellation: Riebeek Kasteel, South Africa
Grapes: 87% Merlot, 13% Syrah – ABV 14.5% (Single vineyard)
Tasting notes: An intense ruby color, with warm red flavors, cloves, and blackcurrant. The taste is entwined in delicate and juicy tannins.
Pairings: Pairs well with Italian dishes, especially tomato-based ones, grilled chicken and Charcuterie, e.g. pâtés, terrines and salamis.
Producer: Kloovenburg Wine Estate
