presented by Andrew Woolgar of Elephants Corner Wines
Marié White Blend ~ 2020
The name Marié celebrates the virtues of womanhood with a clear white label done in old world font, whilst the back-label displays the Thiart-family crest. A jovial white Rhône-blend authentic to the winemakers’ wine-making philosophy.
Appellation: Western Cape, South Africa
Grapes: 50% Roussanne, 38% Marsanne, 12% Viognier- ABV 14.5%
Tasting notes: A carefully selected blend of three white Rhône varietals of Roussanne for elegance and acidity, Marsanne brings spice and texture and Viognier adding aromatics. Fermented in old French oak barrels, with spontaneous fermentation before inoculation.
Pairings: Great food companion for spicy Asian and fuller, creamier dishes.
Producer: Reino Thiart
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 dishes with rich, deep flavors will be a superb pairing with this wine. Seafood dishes will also be a winner.
Producer: Pilgrim Wines
Hoendertande Grenache Noir ~ 2020
Hoendertande Grenache is the first straight Grenache Noir hailing from the Franschhoek region. Also referred to as the “abalone” of the valley, sought after, treasured, and as scarce as hen’s teeth.
Appellation: Franschhoek Valley, South Africa
Grapes: 100% Grenache – ABV 14%
Tasting notes: Red cherry and strawberry notes plus a subtle earthy note on the nose. Light-bodied with lovely pure fruit, fresh acidity and very fine tannins. A slightly spicy quality to the finish thanks to whole-bunch fermentation.
Pairings: A very good match for beef, mature and hard cheese.
Aging: After being basket pressed, the wine was barrel-aged in an older 500L French Oak barrel for 12 months.
Producer: De Kleine Wijn Koöp
Ronkedoor Shiraz ~ 2022
The word ‘Ronkedoor’ means ‘hermit’ in Afrikaans. The label sketch is based on an old Afrikaans fable about a quiet recluse of a man who rescues a little mouse from the claws of an owl and raises her as his own. The ‘Ronkedoor’ pictured on label depicts the tale, representing a Shiraz block in the Walker Bay Valley that stands alone, isolated from the rest, though with the heart of a Ronkedoor and the potential to be something extraordinary.
Appellation: Western Cape, South Africa (Walker Bay)
Grapes: 10% Shiraz – ABV 14%
Tasting notes: A round body and smooth tannins yield notes of fruit including blueberry, dark plum and blackberry complemented by a balanced spice.
Pairings: Pairs well with spicy lamb dishes or even soft cheeses.
Aging: 22-months 100% new French oak barrel (cab/merlot), second-fill oak (others)
Producer: De Kleine Wijn Koöp
