Tasting Notes – South African Wines – 07.23.2025

presented by Andrew Woolgar of Elephants Corner Imports

Anna de Koning Chenin Blanc ~ 2022

This flagship white wine is named after the beautiful Anna De Koning, daughter of a freed slave who became the

wife of the farm’s first owner Olof Bergh in 1676. The juice is fermented in 500L Amphora clay pots -French oak barrels, predominantly older barrels. The wine is kept on the lees within the amphoras and barrels for an additional 9 months before bottling.

Appellation: Durbanville, South Africa

Grapes: 100% Chenin Blanc – ABV 13.27%
Tasting notes: The 2022 has an elegant aroma profile displaying the cool-climate attributes of the wine. Ripe white pear aroma enrobed with subtle sweet spice and fresh almonds. The aroma profile is in sync with the delicate texture palate.
Pairings: The balance of candied fruit and full mouth feel lends this wine to elegant pairings of sweet desserts and dairy-based white meat meals. Examples of which include nutty almond Nougat, gooseberry cheesecake with berry preserves and mild, butter chicken curry, creamy shellfish, or fresh whole baked line-fish dishes.
Producer: Groot Phesantekraal

Syrah Rosé ~ 2023

This vintage of our Syrah Rosé, sourced from the estate’s oldest block, showcases exceptional finesse and concentration. The season commenced with early ripening, deviating from the typical trend, resulting in robust, healthy grapes that exhibited superb color development.
Appellation: Durbanville, South Africa

Grapes: 100% Syrah – ABV 13.25%
Tasting notes: Delicate salmon pink hue. Inviting aromas of ripe grapefruit dominate, complemented by subtle hints of dried herbs and delicate floral notes. There’s a refreshing quality that suggests summer gardens and citrus groves. The first sip reveals a creamy texture that coats the palate, enhancing the wine’s luxurious feel. A distinct saline character emerges, creating a delightful salivating effect that amplifies the fruitiness. Notes of juicy peach and tangy pomegranate mingle harmoniously, leading to a satisfyingly crisp and refreshing finish.
Pairings:
The delightful 2024 Groot Phesantekraal Rosé with grilled shrimp skewers served with a citrusy herb marinade for a perfect match that complements its creamy texture and refreshing grapefruit notes.
Producer
: Groot Phesantekraal

Pinotage ~ 2022

The Pinotage vines are planted on a south-facing slope in a vertical shoot positioning system for optimal growing and

ripening conditions. Produced in a cool climate style which emphasizes the heritage of Pinot noir en Hermitage. Predominantly, aged in French oak barrels with low toasting levels to emphasize fruit and volume in the final wine. The use of 15% American oak boosts roundness and brings forth a dark broody character in final wine. 20% New oak was used in final blend.
Appellation: Durbanville, South Africa

Grapes: 100% Pinotage – ABV 13.71%
Tasting notes: Vibrant red-purple hue in the glass with aromas of nutmeg, star anise, cinnamon, and subtle smoky undertones. On the palate, a burst of mulberry and Maraschino cherry which interlaces beautifully with the sweet spice. Subtle smokiness and balanced acidity to a lingering finish.
Pairings: The velvety tannin structure combined with flavors of sour cherry and a savory finish promotes spicy dishes such as Asian infused Pork stir-fry, Harissa lamb, chili con carne, and slow-roasted Cajun short rib. The key is balance, and our Pinotage certainly knows how to complement your favorite spicy dishes
Producer: Groot Phesantekraal

Cabernet Sauvignon ~ 2021

The Cabernet Sauvignon vines are planted on an east-facing slope and enjoy morning sun with cooler afternoons. Malmesbury shale and deep clay soils assist with moisture retention. This wine was aged in 5% American oak and 95% French oak for 14 months. The wine was matured for an additional 3 months in bottle before releasing. This wine will develop further complexity with careful cellaring for 10 years.
Appellation: Durbanville, South Africa
Grapes: 100% Cabernet Sauvignon – ABV 14.15%
Tasting notes: Concentrated dark fruit aromas of blackcurrant and blue berries which follow through to the palate. Pinecone and black pepper scents are in harmony with fruit, creating a full-bodied complex wine. Beautiful tightness on the palate with dried herb nuances emphasizes the cool climate terroir. The wine has a long, full finish that lingers with a blueberry aftertaste.
Pairings: Elegant and balanced; our Cabernet Sauvignon flavors of plums and blueberry display the beauty of subtlety. Restrained dark berry flavors with a high acidity lend themselves to be enjoyed with roasted “in-the-bone” Marrow on brioche, Pork and chicken liver terrine, or hearty pork knuckle broth.
Producer: Groot Phesantekraal