http://www.mivinem.co.za (Information)support@mivinem.co.za (Support)Copyright BLUEtub Design and Production ccen-usThu, 09 Sep 2010 14:11:11 +0200http://www.mivinem.co.zahttp://www.mivinem.co.za/index.php?news=616Thu, 09 Sep 2010 11:58:30 +0200http://www.mivinem.co.za/index.php?news=616 Oude Molen Solera Grand Reserve Wins | Today

The Oude Molen brandy distillery received a substantial boost to its trophy cabinet when three of its brandies were awarded medals at the 2010 International Wine and Spirits Competition. The recently launched maiden release of the Oude Molen Solera Grand Reserve scooped a gold medal as well as a Best in Class .

According to the tasting notes from the panel of judges, they considered the Oude Molen Solera Grand Reserve a very attractive brandy with a warm, natural colour. The panel consisting of industry experts and wine masters described the Solera as having a "delightful nose with ripe fruit and lots of sherry notes. Full flavours in the mouth give a whole array of characters. Sherry is the main feature with supporting roles from dried apricot, raisin, spicy oak and some sweet floral notes. Smooth and soft, yet with good grip and great balance. Long finish where sherry again features strongly."

A gold medal is only awarded to a product that scores more than 90 points and the product scoring the highest mark in the gold range achieves the accolade of Best in Class. The Oude Molen Solera Grand Reserve is aged through a three-tiered Solera system. According to distillery manager Andre Simonis, it has taken six years to fill the complete system. "We started with brandy matured for at least three years in the top tier and only bottle from the bottom tier, so we can be sure that the Solera Grand Reserve will show consistency for the next 100 years. Although this has been a long process, a gold medal and Best in Class award at such an influential competition certainly proved it worthwhile."

The Oude Molen Ren Single Cask and Oude Molen VOV Rare Vintage Selection each received a silver medal. All Oude Molen brandies are 100% pot-stilled and oak matured according to the centuries old cognac style first introduced by Rene Santagen, the father of South African brandy, at his Oude Molen Distillery a hundred years ago. These brandies currently retail directly from the distillery in Elgin.

For more information, contact the Oude Molen Brandy Distillery, South Africas premier brandy destination, at 021 859 2517/ 072 990 2540, email jv@oudemolen.co.za ]]>http://www.mivinem.co.za/index.php?news=614Thu, 09 Sep 2010 11:55:33 +0200http://www.mivinem.co.za/index.php?news=614 Obikwa Offers More Good Value | Today

OBIKWA Shiraz, hailed as South Africas Best Value Shiraz at the 2010 Global Trader Shiraz Challenge, is now offering even more quality at a pocket friendly price in a super size 1,5 litre magnum bottle, ideal for affordable festive entertaining.

Enjoying widespread appeal for both quality and price, OBIKWA has developed a loyal following of wine lovers both locally and abroad. You will certainly make an impact by bringing a magnum of OBIKWA Shiraz as a gift for the host of your next dinner party and what could be more enjoyable than sharing a magnum with family and friends.

Teeming with ripe plums, berries and oak spices, OBIKWA Shiraz is easy on the palate with a rich, full-bodied taste and a good tannic structure.

Inspired by the intrepid Obikwa people, OBIKWA is a down-to-earth range of easy drinking, quality wines expressing their true varietal character and rich, ethnic charm at an affordable price. Be sure to grab an OBIKWA Shiraz magnum selling at around R46 at your nearest supermarket or liquor outlet. Its the one with the bright yellow ostrich on the label you cant miss it! ]]>http://www.mivinem.co.za/index.php?news=613Thu, 09 Sep 2010 11:55:02 +0200http://www.mivinem.co.za/index.php?news=613 Simply The Best Wines at RMB Winex Cape Town | Today

The RMB WineX Best-Wines-on-Show ballot has consistently proved itself the most striking and accurate touchstone of the public perception of wine quality. Conducted as an exit poll by a team interviewing visitors to every WineX show since 2003, it reveals a remarkable overlap between taste appeal and producer reputation. It also defines trends in the wider consumer market and serves as a guideline to wine fashion.

At the 2010 RMB WineX in Cape Town the leading names emerging from a poll covering close to 600 responses are listed below. Once again the two key features of this result are the recognition accorded to some of the countrys best known and most highly reputed cellars, as well as the ongoing popularity of the heavily-oaked Pinotage style.

The top ten wine achievers at the RMB WineX Cape Town 2010 were as follows:

BEST WHITE WINE ON SHOW 2010:
1st: Springfield Life from Stone Sauvignon Blanc 2010
Shared 2nd: Glen Carlou Chardonnay 2008 andTread Lightly Sauvignon Blanc 2010 (Backsberg)
The balance of the Top Ten in alphabetical order (including tied scores):
Ataraxia Chardonnay 2008
Backsberg John Martin Sauvignon Blanc 2009
Cape Point Sauvignon Blanc 2010
Hamilton Russell Chardonnay 2009
Klein Constantia Vin de Constance 2005
TheVrede en Lust Viognier 2009
Thelema Sauvignon Blanc 2009

BEST RED WINE ON SHOW 2010:
Shared 1st: Diemersfontein Pinotage 2009 and Vrede en Lust Mocholate Malbec 2009
2nd: Vrede en Lust Boet Erasmus 2007
The balance of the Top Ten in alphabetical order (including tied scores):
Boekenhoutskloof The Chocolate Block 2009
Boekenhoutskloof Cabernet Sauvignon 2008
Beyerskloof Pinotage 2009
Eagles Nest Shiraz 2008
Hamilton Russell Pinot Noir 2009
Rupert & Rothschild Classique 2008
Saronsberg Shiraz 2007

The new look two-day RMB WineX Cape Town, which took place at the CTICC on the 19 and 20 August, was attended by just more than 5 400 Cape Town wine lovers. Over 500 wines from 112 exhibitors was available for tasting and purchase via the shows Shop@Show retail facility with a turnover of just more than R 181 000.00 in wine sales. Top selling wines were the Saronsberg Shiraz 2007 by volume and the Eagles Nest Shiraz 2008 by value.

The 11th RMB WineX Sandton takes place from 27 to 29 October at the Sandton Convention Centre. For more information visit www.winex.co.za . ]]>http://www.mivinem.co.za/index.php?news=615Thu, 09 Sep 2010 11:52:54 +0200http://www.mivinem.co.za/index.php?news=615 Nederburg Auction Hits 6 Bottles at R62 000.00 | Today

One of the most talked-about sales on the first day of the two-day Nederburg Auction currently underway (September 3 and 4) at Paarl was the case of six bottles of Nederburg Port 1964 that fetched R62 000.00, nearly 18 times the reserve price of R 3 500.00.

Each of the 750ml bottles of the fortified wine, made from Shiraz grapes, went for the equivalent R10 333.33, bought by a representative from Next International Nigeria Limited.

The only Port ever made by the legendary Nederburg winemaker Gnter Brzel, who retired more than 20 years ago, every bottle has been numbered and sealed.

The organisers of the auction confirmed that just one 6-bottle case remains of the port. It is not known if it will be auctioned in future. ]]>http://www.mivinem.co.za/index.php?news=617Thu, 09 Sep 2010 11:51:56 +0200http://www.mivinem.co.za/index.php?news=617 Waterkloof Launches Maiden Red | Today

Waterkloof, recognised for its repertoire of aristocratic, European style wines and commitment to sustainable farming on the elevated outskirts of the Helderberg Winelands, has extended its expressive Circle of Life tier with the unveiling of the maiden Red 2008.Crafted on the same blueprint as the Circle of Life White 2009 which made its debut earlier this year, this red edition was also conceived as an all embracing reflection of the estates defining sense of origin with its singular variations in soils, terrain and climate but this time to the delight of red wine aficionados.

"The name, Circle of Life, reflects the renewal of nature. Working with nature allows one to experience its natural cycle each year. Vines awaken from their rest in spring to grow and produce fruit until the next winter when they go to back to sleep, only to be reborn again. Our Circle of Life twosome is inspired by this ongoing cycle that exists not only at Waterkloof, but in life in general," explains Waterkloof winemaker Werner Engelbrecht.

Waterkloof owner Paul Boutinot, one of the UKs leading wine importers, confesses that he was unaware of the Circle of Life theme song from the Disney hit animation, The Lion King, when he decided on the name for his latest wines. Nevertheless it is rather fitting as Werner and his team abide by biodynamic farming practices with animals playing a big part in Waterkloofs holistic approach. They use the manure of Dexter cows in the place of herbicides, fungicides and pesticides in the vineyards and utilise pure Percheron horse power rather than tractors to help with soil preparation and cultivation.

Waterkloof Circle of Life Red 2008 is the culmination of a unique set of circumstances emanating from site-specific vineyard blocks, some rising up to 300 metres above sea level, that have shaped the components in the blend."Our Circle of Life Red 2008 is not a wine that is driven by varietal or a specific vineyard, nor by a certain style, such as a Bordeaux blend, but rather a description by taste of the totality of Waterkloof," adds Werner.

The Bordeaux varietals in the blend were destemmed while the Rhone varietals, depending on the ripeness of the stems, were whole-bunch fermented, but Werner is reluctant to reveal the precise components that make up the blend as it may take away some of its mystique. One thing is for sure though, all Waterkloof red wines are naturally fermented in open top wooden fermenters, without the addition of cultivated yeasts, and the wines stay on the skins for up to 40 days before being pressed.The Waterkloof Circle of Life Red 2008 is a classic wine with notes of cassis and cedar. The seamless, elegant palate is encased by fine tannins and the wine will only increase in complexity with age.

In his own words Werner describes it as a wine that does not decline in your glass, but one that continually grabs your attention. Try this red wine with pan seared kudu fillet with a crust of finely chopped rosemary and thyme or with a Provenal lamb casserole.

Waterkloof Circle of Life Red 2008 retails from R 180.00 per bottle and is available directly from the cellar or at selected fine wine outlets countrywide.

For more information or wine orders contact Waterkloof Estate at Tel: 021 858 1292 or visit www.waterkloofwines.co.za. ]]>http://www.mivinem.co.za/index.php?news=612Wed, 01 Sep 2010 14:28:55 +0200http://www.mivinem.co.za/index.php?news=612 Robertson Wine Valley @ Kloofzicht | Wednesday, 1 September 2010

After many years of staging ever-popular annual festivals at home, such as Robertson Wine on the River and the Wacky Wine Weekend, the Robertson Wine Valley are now extending their inimitable country hospitality and fine wines to Gautengers. So why not escape the hurried pace of city life and take the time to head out to the country for a weekend of fun-filled activities.
Contact: 023 626 3167 or manager@robertsonwinevalley.com
Venue: Goudmyn Farm between Robertson & Bonnievale
Date: 15 17 October 2010
Cost: Cost varies depending on day

]]>http://www.mivinem.co.za/index.php?news=611Wed, 01 Sep 2010 14:21:16 +0200http://www.mivinem.co.za/index.php?news=611 Perdeberg Winery Needs No Lucky Horseshoe | Wednesday, 1 September 2010

When your winery believes in keeping wine simple, yet receives many awards for its produce, you must know that you're doing something right - and luck has nothing to do with it!

Perdeberg Winery did exceptionally well at the recent Paarl and National Young Wine Show 2010. The South African Young Wine Show is held annually to allow winemakers to show off their brightest wines from the new vintage.

Perdeberg proudly galloped away from the competition with five gold, fourteen silver and ten bronze medals for their selected wines, with every one entered receiving an award bar one.

Amongst the many accolades that Perdeberg received, they were also awarded with the Sarel Rossouw Trophy for the five highest scoring wines in the Paarl-region competition. A remarkable achievement, considering the other great wine farms in this area.

Furthermore, the Winery was also awarded Champion Chenin Blanc, as well as Champion Other Wood Matured Red for our Petit Verdot in the Paarl regions leg of the competition.

Nationally Perdeberg performed equally well, taking the Stephan Smit Trophy for National Champion Other Wood Matured Red (with the Petit Verdot). At national level Perdeberg had two class winners, Mouvedre (unwooded) and Petit Verdot (wooded)

Production manager Albertus Louw is quick to point out that the accolades obtained are the result of a team effort. "At Perdeberg we firmly believe our success in wine making is a result of our inclusive strategy. Everything we accomplish, is due to a strong team effort."

At National Level:
The following Perdeberg Wines received Gold Medals:
Chenin Blanc (Wooded)
Cabernet Sauvignon/Malbec/Merlot (Wooded)
Shiraz/Petit Verdot/Mourvedre (Wooded)
Mourvedre
Petit Verdot (Wooded)

The following Perdeberg Wines received Silver Medals:
Chenin Blanc/Sauvignon Blanc
Chardonnay/Viognier (Wooded)
Chenin Blanc
Cabernet Sauvignon/Shiraz
Shiraz/Cabernet Sauvignon/Merlot
Pinotage/Merlot/shiraz/Cab Sauv/Mourvedre
Pinotage
Cabernet Sauvignon
Merlot
Cabernet Sauvignon (Wooded)
Pinotage (Wooded)
Shiraz (Wooded)
Merlot (Wooded)
Malbec (Wooded)

The following Perdeberg Wines received Bronze Medals:
Chardonnay/Sauvignon Blanc/Viognier
Sauvignon Blanc/Viognier
Chenin Blanc/Chardonnay
Sauvignon Blanc
Chardonnay
Viognier
Chardonnay (Wooded)
Cinsaut
Shiraz
Mourvedre (Wooded)

"Trophies are great but what is equally satisfying is the fact that Perdeberg has now for two years running achieved near perfect results on all wines entered in the Young Wine Shows. In 2009 we had the 2nd most gold medals of all participants! This is a testimony that not only can we make exceptional trophy winners but overall our quality is excellent. We salute our team!" Gerhard van der Watt, CEO of Perdeberg.

Perdeberg's wines reflect contribution of the Agter-Paarl's unique cultivation area. The area offers many different characters and aromas - this motivates the winemaking team at Perdeberg to experiment with the different topographies that gives each wine its own personality. Perdeberg Winery believes that by keeping wine simple, one lets the wine speak for itself in terms of quality.

Perdeberg's range of Red & White Wines are available in all major stockists, online at www.perdeberg.co.za or direct from the cellar (08h00 - 17h00 weekdays; 10h00 -14h00 Saturdays). Tel: 021 869 8244 or email: info@perdeberg.co.za. ]]>http://www.mivinem.co.za/index.php?news=610Wed, 01 Sep 2010 14:14:25 +0200http://www.mivinem.co.za/index.php?news=610 Stellenbosch at Summer Place | Wednesday, 1 September 2010

Gauteng to savour the soul of the Winelands in style

South meets north for an exclusive wine, food, music and art extravaganza when Stellenbosch winelands finest descend on Gauteng for an unrivalled celebration of the finer things in life at Stellenbosch at Summer Place in Hyde Park on Wednesday, 10 November 2010.

Teaming up with Sanlam Private Investments, the inaugural Stellenbosch at Summer Place brings grapes, glitz and glamour to the City of Gold, to showcase the finest wine, food, art and crme de la crme of the Stellenbosch winelands.

Jozi socialites will have the rare opportunity of savouring the true spirit of Stellenbosch in style and rub shoulders with 50 top Stellenbosch winemakers. Delight in 200 of the finest wines from the countrys premium wine region and experience award-winning Stellenbosch chefs lending their gourmet flair with their signature dishes. The elegant rooms and spaces at the luxurious Summer Place will be transformed into a unique wine and gourmet rendezvous for guests to linger and indulge all their senses. Talented Stellenbosch music sensation Zamar will add rhythm to this glamorous affair and art aficionados will be able to feast their eyes on select pieces exhibited by Stefan Hundt, curator of the Sanlam Art Collection one of South Africa's oldest and most extensive corporate art collections.Tickets for Stellenbosch at Summer Place cost R 395.00 per head and include wine tasting and gourmet delight throughout the evening. As tickets are limited, immediate booking is essential to avoid disappointment. The evening starts at 18:30 for 19:00. ]]>http://www.mivinem.co.za/index.php?news=609Wed, 01 Sep 2010 14:09:13 +0200http://www.mivinem.co.za/index.php?news=609 Nederburg‘s Flagship 2009 Ingenuity White | Wednesday, 1 September 2010

"I always like to play with the very last component," says Nederburg cellarmaster Razvan Macici of the eight-way Ingenuity White blend, now in its third vintage as the apex of the Nederburg range. It has just been released onto the market.

"For the first time, we have introduced Gewrztraminer - just 2% - but it adds just the faintest trace of sweetness to this very complex, sumptuous and layered blend. Its so slight as to be almost elusive but it polishes the palate and pays tribute to Gnter Brzel, who enjoyed enormous success with this variety at Nederburg during the 1980s."

That decade Brzel won many gold medals for the varietal on the International Wine & Spirit Competition and was crowned Diners Club Winemaker of the Year in 1986 for a Gewrztraminer.

The Nederburg team conceived and created the debut Ingenuity White blend in 2007 as a way to highlight the winery's capacity for originality and innovation. They used Verdelho as the last word then and Muscat to round off the wine in 2008 but wanted a different cultivar for the current release 2009 vintage to give it its own je ne sais quoi.

"The Gewrztraminer, grown in Stellenbosch, has a very pleasing floral aroma and a subtle palate that reminds me of Turkish delight. But that is just one small detail in this multi-faceted and plush but zesty wine that is fresh, fragrant and food-friendly," says Macici "It is also surprisingly nuanced in a way that lets you discover a new quality every time you try it."

While the other seven varietals featured in the 2009 vintage of the wine are the same as its predecessor, the composition of the blend has changed slightly. "The lead variety is still Sauvignon blanc for the crisp, mineral notes it lends to the wine, and accounts for 30%. For added depth, we fermented a small portion in small oak. Next is Chardonnay, at 25%, from Durbanville and Paarl. The grapes were fermented in 228 litre French oak and then left on the lees for eight months, stirred regularly. As no malolactic fermentation was induced, it brings vibrancy with lovely creamy citrus aromas and flavours.

The Semillon, also wooded, is the bridge that binds the Sauvignon and the Chardonnay, giving the wine a firm and well-integrated structure. It represents 15% of the blend, as does the Chenin blanc, that comes from intensely flavoured, bush vines growing in Darling and Stellenbosch to give a lively acidity and a gorgeous hint of raisin."

The 2009 Ingenuity White also includes Nouvelle (6%) that spent a few months in wood, Riesling (5%) and Viognier (2%). "This Viognier also spent some time in wood. Its big, bold and ripe, so all we needed was 2% for its delicious peach, apricot and vanilla characters."

The result, says Macici, is an arresting but elegant blend that unveils its depth with an array of herbaceous, citrus, stone fruit, spicy and floral aromas, echoed on the palate. "The integration of all its components gives it poise and grace."

Says Nederburg's white winemaker, Tariro Masayiti: "Weve made a wine with enough structure to hold its own for eight to ten years. Its fusion of mineral, fruit and oak characters gives it complexity to complement a variety of seafood and red and white meat dishes."

The 2008 vintage was rated five stars in the 2010 edition of the Platter South African Wine Guide, while its predecessor featured as a five-star wine in the 2009 guide.

This wine retails for around R 150.00 per 750ml bottle.
Technical analysis:
Alcohol: 13,64% by volume
Residual sugar: 2,65 grams/litre
pH: 3,35
Acidity: 6,8 grams/litre ]]>http://www.mivinem.co.za/index.php?news=608Wed, 01 Sep 2010 14:01:51 +0200http://www.mivinem.co.za/index.php?news=608 Steenberg Abuzz With New Cellar Door Activities | Wednesday, 1 September 2010

Steenberg Vineyards has announced two wine tasting events that will focus on the museum class vintages that they have produced here over the past few years, with some wines dating back as far as 1995. These tasting journeys down memory lane will take place at Steenberg Winery on the estate, affording guests a taste of the aged Steenberg Sauvignon Blancs, Semillons and selected red wines. Events take place at 18h00 on 16 September and 14 October 2010 respectively, and will be led by Steenberg Winemaker JD Pretorius, who is being touted as an expert on the Sauvignon Blanc varietal. The venue for these limited edition wine tasting events is the Executive Tasting Room overlooking the vineyards and the glorious Constantia Valley. Attendance is R120 per person. As seating is limited, booking is essential. For reservations, please call Lida on 021 713 2211.

Further news is that visitors to Steenberg Vineyards now have the unique opportunity to have their say by way of a recently installed touch screen in the tasting room, which enables visitors to rate and review the wines they taste right there, on the spot! Steenberg takes great pride in providing excellent service and a superb cellar door experience, and with the addition of this innovative new feedback system, visitors are invited to talk about the wines they have tasted. This unique service has catapulted the winery into the Top 10 Wine Farms list on the popular Spit or Swallow website, see http://www.spitorswallow.co.za/site/.

And with blogging being all the rage, the advent of Steenberg Vineyards very own blog, Totally Stoned, which went live recently, saw yet another way for wine lovers to stay up to date with the latest news and happenings from under the stone mountain. Best of all, it is now possible to catch up on the latest cellar news and happenings at Bistro Sixteen82 from the comfort of your own home, while sipping that first cup of coffee for the day! Visit http://www.totallystoned.co.za/

Steenberg Vineyards is also proud to announce the launch of the Steenberg Wine Club on the 1st of September, offering members special privileges. These include preferential prices and access to the latest vintages, free delivery of wine to any address in South Africa, food and wine tastings with the winemaker, and so much more from the Steenberg cellar and beyond. Those wishing to join the Wine Club may contact Nadah@steenbrg.co.za.

And finally, Steenberg is proud to introduce new tutored Food and Wine Pairings that will provide those seeking an exceptional experience with a veritable taste sensation. Comprising pre-selected Steenberg wines matched with delicious bites from Bistro Sixteen82, choices range from a Sauvignon Blanc Tasting matched with salmon prepared in four distinct and delicious styles; to selected Ultra Premium Steenberg wines matched with melt-in-the-mouth Tapas tastings, as well as a Cheese and Wine Tasting showcasing the scope and variety of Steenberg wines. The cost is R200 per person/minimum of 2 people.

MORE ABOUT STEENBERG VINEYARDS
Steenberg has long been recognised as one of the top White Wine Cellars in South Africa, and has scored no less than eight 5-star Platter awards since 2002, mostly for its Semillon and Sauvignon Blanc Reserve, and blends thereof (2003; 2005; 2007 and 2009).

Established in 1682 by the legendary 'Widow Ras', Steenberg is the oldest farm in the Constantia Valley. The estate produces 50 000 cases of wine annually, with approximately half exported to 15 countries worldwide. Steenberg wines are excellent 'food wines' due to the uniqueness of the terroir, which guarantees varietal expression, firm acidity and longevity. Sauvignon Blanc is currently considered the farms flagship wine. Recent accolades include earning five stars in Platters Guide 2008 for the maiden vintage Magna Carta 2007, and the selection of John Loubser's The White Savage Sauvignon Blanc for the prestigious Nedbank Cape Winemakers Guild Auction for two years running, fetching a record-breaking price for a white wine in 2008.

Situated 20 minutes from the centre of Cape Town, Steenberg Vineyards shares the grounds with a gracious boutique hotel (21 guest rooms and 3 Heritage Suites), a luxury spa, the famed Catharinas fine dining restaurant, and cellar door restaurant Bistro Sixteen82, as well as an 18-hole championship golf course. ]]>http://www.mivinem.co.za/index.php?news=607Fri, 27 Aug 2010 10:10:40 +0200http://www.mivinem.co.za/index.php?news=607 Robertson Wine on the River | Friday, 27 August 2010

Now five years old, the Robertson Wine on the River will take place 15 - 17 October 2010.

This idyllic open-air wine festival takes place on the banks of the Breede River at the Goudmyn Farm between Robertson and Bonnievale.

Just imagine a setting with the river flowing by, vineyards all around, beautiful hills and shading popular trees. Add to that live music, plenty of wines to taste, picnics and other local produce and youve got yourself a spring festival not to be missed!

Contact: 023 626 3167 or mmouton@robertsonwinevalley.com or www.wineonriver.com ]]>http://www.mivinem.co.za/index.php?news=606Fri, 27 Aug 2010 08:00:14 +0200http://www.mivinem.co.za/index.php?news=606 Local Black-Owned Winery‘s Afrocentric Experience | Friday, 27 August 2010

Dynamic husband and wife team, Diale and Malmsey Rangaka have turned a passion for wine and tourism into a successful business that is uniquely South African. Mhudi Wines is located on the outskirts of Stellenbosch and is the first wine tourism farm to be wholly owned and managed by an ordinary black South African family.

A member of Stellenbosch Tourism and Stellenbosch Wine Routes, Mhudi Wines offers a wine experience with a personal, distinctly South African touch through wine tours, small events and conferencing, wine workshops and tastings. CEO and MD Malmsey says; Our aim is to share with our guests a taste of this unique and diverse country in a relaxed, informal environment our conference and tasting venue is actually an old tractor shed which has been transformed into a warm, comfortable, boutique venue that offers all the necessary facilities without losing the earthiness of its origins it embodies the essence of what were about."

Launa Els from Kwela Tours and Events comments; "My first experience at Mhudi was quite a memorable one. Meeting the family members in true hearty African style was a unique experience that definitely made me keen to return for more. The intriguing stories that Diale tells about the history of not only the farm and its name, but also the wines, captures the imagination. Clients that I hosted during the recent Soccer World Cup were treated to a true African Braai with the most exquisite side-dishes, which made this experience something theyd definitely remember Mhudi by."

The farm derives its name from the Setswana word "Mohudi", meaning "harvester. It is also the name given to the heroine of a great African story penned by South African writer, linguist and politician, Sol Plaatje. In the story, Mhudi flees her war-ravaged village in search of a new beginning. Hers is a tale of courage and determination and the relentless pursuit of ones dreams and aspirations and is the inspiration behind the Rangaka familys own story. For them the dream was realized when Malmsey recently received the 2010 Emerging Tourism Entrepreneur of the Year Award (ETEYA), which rewards outstanding black tourism entrepreneurs. Malmsey comments; I am honoured to have been named this years winner. Developing MHudi Wines into a sustainable business has been incredibly challenging, and for us this award is just recognition of the incredible commitment and hard work that we have put in so far.

In addition to their wine tourism offering, Mhudi has a range of easy-drinking wines with an elegant modern African look, including Pinotage, Merlot and a cool climate Sauvignon Blanc. Current international export destinations include the United Kingdom (Marks & Spencer), 42 states in the United States, and Germany. Locally Mhudi wines can be purchased from selected retail and independent stores nationally, including Woolworths from September this year. ]]>http://www.mivinem.co.za/index.php?news=605Fri, 27 Aug 2010 07:58:08 +0200http://www.mivinem.co.za/index.php?news=605 Swartland Winery Crowned Big Champion | Friday, 27 August 2010

Wines from Swartland Winery did exceptionally well at the Young Wine Show of the Swartland region, with its Pinot age crowned as the Big Champion.

The winery won a total of nine class winners with four gold medals, nine silver medals and 16 bronze medals. Saralands Pinot age was also singled out as the national class winner, while the winerys wooded and unwounded Cabernet Sauvignon and its Cabernet/Shiraz/Pinot age blend won gold medals.

The winery won another three trophies: the Amesbury Motors Trophy for the top dry red wine, the Cobus Basson Trophy for the champion Pinotage and the WPK Trophy for the best Rose.

"We once again proved that bush vines, which produce some 70% of Swartland Winerys grapes, deliver wines of exceptional quality. Even though the yield from these vineyards is low, the concentrated flavours and aromas of the red wines in particular confirm the quality of the small berries on these vines," says Suzanne van Dyk, manager: brand development at Swartland Winery.

"Our award-winning Cabernets are prime examples of this. The grapes used for the production of these top-quality wines come from the vineyards of the late Mr Patat Basson Producer of the Year 2010 among our producers. These achievements pay tribute to this legend of the Swartland."

Find more information at www.swwines.co.za.

Not sold to persons under the age of 18. Enjoy responsibly.

Issued on behalf of Swartland Winery by HIPPO Communications ]]>http://www.mivinem.co.za/index.php?news=604Fri, 27 Aug 2010 07:57:04 +0200http://www.mivinem.co.za/index.php?news=604 Neethlinghof The Maria 2010 | Friday, 27 August 2010

The news that Neethlingshof has been judged a champion trophy winner in the recent 2010 SA Young Wine Show, earning the coveted Agri-Expo golden trophy for top wooded noble late harvest, co-incides with the release of the estates limited-edition 2010 Short Story Collection The Maria.

The champion wine comes from the same vineyard and has been vinified in exactly the same way as the specialty single-vineyard wine, made from hand-picked grapes grown on the estates dry-farmed south-facing Weisser on the Hill block.

Lighter and more elegant in profile than its predecessors, according to winemaker De Wet Viljoen, the new release The Maria carries the same hallmark qualities of fruit cake, dried apricot, peach and honey as previous vintages. It is less outspoken, though with a charming subtlety that unfurls on the palate."

Its more reserved profile is an expression of the vintage, he says, which did not see the same extent of Botrytis cinerea (noble rot) infection as in previous years. "Nevertheless, we are very happy with the finesse of the wine, structured to endure for a decade or more and Im personally looking forward to watching it acquire new levels of depth and complexity over the next five years or so.

"Its fresh acidity serves as a delicious counterpoint to the luscious nectar-like sweetness and because its botrytis character is more subdued than in earlier examples of the wine, it is even more versatile as a partner to food. I enjoy it with game terrines, chicken or duck liver pats, blue cheese and of course, with fruit-based desserts."

The grapes, picked at 44 Balling, came from 18-year-old vines planted in deep, red soils 170 metres above sea level and exposed to the cooling mists of False Bay.

The juice was fermented at 13 to 14C over 18 days with just 24 hours skin contact and no malolactic fermentation was allowed. As is the custom with this wine, a small portion was aged in small new wood for two months, in a combination of French and Hungarian oak, to give it additional palate weight.

The Maria is named after Maria Magdalena Marais, the resourceful and feisty young widow who took over the building of the manor house on the Stellenbosch property after the death of her husband, Charles, in 1813. It was when her daughter Anna Margaretha married Johannes Henoch Neethling that the name of the farm was changed from its original Wolwedans to Neethlingshof.

Sold in 375ml bottles, the wine retails for around R 120.00 and is available from the estate in Stellenbosch, and selected outlets countrywide. ]]>http://www.mivinem.co.za/index.php?news=603Tue, 24 Aug 2010 15:46:01 +0200http://www.mivinem.co.za/index.php?news=603 Drostdy-Hof Winemakers Collection New Packaging | Tuesday, 24 August 2010

Drostdy-Hof, generous wines with a rich heritage of quality and consistency, have extended their Winemakers Collection with new convenient, value-for-money 3-litre slimpacks for four of their most popular cultivar wines.

Now you can enjoy the quality of vintage Drostdy-Hof wines in a convenient 3- litre slimpack ideal for everyday enjoyment at a pocket friendly price that gives you the equivalent of four bottles for the price of three! Bold and confident with upfront fruitiness and inviting flavours, Drostdy-Hof is pure generosity in a handy slimpack available in Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. The white wines in the slimpack sell for around R 76.00 whilst the reds will cost about R 84.00 in leading supermarkets.

Besides its amazing value, the new Drostdy-Hof 3-litre slimpack is so versatile you should never be without it. Ideal for outdoor entertaining and summer picnics, they are unbelievably fridge friendly. The slimpack fits easily into your fridge door, it cools quickly and stays cooler for longer and because no air gets in, it keeps perfectly after you have poured your first glass.

Drostdy-Hof Chardonnay 2010 is a rich and smooth, well-integrated melding of fruit and wood, abounding with citrus, lime, apricot and rich tropical fruit aromas. A regular gold medal winner at international wine competitions, Drostdy-Hof Chardonnay is very versatile and can be savoured on its own or served with fish, white meats and salads.

Drostdy-Hof Sauvignon Blanc 2010 is a vibrant and fruity wine brimming with aromas of gooseberries, litchis and freshly cut grass. This refreshing summer wine is delicious with fish and chicken dishes.

Drostdy-Hof Merlot 2009 is a generous mouth filling wine full of berries and plums. It is the ideal taste partner with pasta and red meat dishes.

Drostdy-Hof Cabernet Sauvignon 2009 is a medium to full-bodied wine that teems with blackcurrants and prunes on the nose and is rich and mouth filling with fruity, plummy flavours. It is an ideal companion for pasta, game and veal.

The Drostdy-Hof Winemakers Collection has a wide following both locally and abroad with a range of quality, easy-drinking, value-for-money wines in convenient packaging and a variety of sizes, comfortably catering for every taste. These wines personify warm South African hospitality at every occasion, bringing together family and friends.

Drosty-Hof takes its name from De Oude Drostdy, the original magistrates court dating back to 1804 in the picturesque town of Tulbagh. For a tasting of these sociable wines, visit this stately home of Drostdy-Hof. A trip to this picturesque, historic valley is well worth the drive. For further information on Drostdy-Hof wines, visit www.drostdywines.co.za . ]]>http://www.mivinem.co.za/index.php?news=602Tue, 24 Aug 2010 15:25:15 +0200http://www.mivinem.co.za/index.php?news=602 Pongracz Sponsors Wine Festival | Tuesday, 24 August 2010

Pongracz, South Africa's leading Methode Cap Classique, will be hosting formal tutored tastings of leading Cap Classique and French Champagne at the inaugural Dorp Street MCC and Champagne Festival to be held at the Black Horse centre in Stellenbosch on Saturday, 28 August 2010. This prestigious event is aimed in providing people with an unforgettable experience of the finest Cap Classiques and French Champagnes.

Conceived especially for serious wine lovers who appreciate the finer things in life, this exclusive festival is sure to become a social highlight on the annual South African wine calendar. Guests can choose between formal tutored tastings or an informal tasting at their own leisure of 12 Champagnes and 12 boutique Cap Classiques. Two formal tutored tastings presented by well-known Cap Classique aficionado Allan Mullins and Jeff Grier, Chairman of the MCC Association, comprise premium cuvees and older vintages from leading cellars. Guests can also attend a tasting of 12 top-end local and imported mineral waters. Each tasting will only be open to 30 guests.

"Desiderius Pongrcz, the inspiration behind our own Cap Classique and one of the protagonists of planting classic Champagne varietals in the Cape, would have been proud of this initiative in the heart of Stellenbosch to promote our local MCC's alongside the finest Champagnes of France," says Liandra Kotze, Global Marketing Manager for Pongrcz.

This charismatic nobleman and refugee from the Hungarian uprising dedicated his life's work to viticulture in the Cape winelands giving impetus to what has become a thriving Cap Classique industry today. Understanding the importance of noble cultivars long before anyone else, he was instrumental in introducing the classic Champagne varietals, Chardonnay and Pinot noir, to the Cape winelands.

Be sure to book your tickets fast as there are only 200 available. Festival tickets cost R 400.00 per person for the informal tasting and R 250.00 per person for the formal tastings.

The first formal tasting, a comparative tasting of 12 Prestige Cuvees and vintage MCC's, chaired by Champagne authority Allan Mullins CWM will take place from 17h30 till 18h45.

This will be followed by a mineral water tasting of 12 top-end local and imported waters such as VOSS and FIJI, which will take place from 19h00 20h00 and costs R 100.00 per person.

The third formal tasting, a vertical tasting of 12 older vintages of Villiera, Simonsig and Desiderius Pongrcz, chaired by MCC Association Chairman Jeff Grier, will take place from 20h15 21h30.

Parking will be free of charge at Builders Express, corner of Dorp and Market Street. To book call Inke on 079 268 3779 or email her on inke@inkegouwschampagne.co.za. ]]>http://www.mivinem.co.za/index.php?news=601Tue, 24 Aug 2010 15:21:00 +0200http://www.mivinem.co.za/index.php?news=601 Waterkloof Wine Estate Extends Its Green Brigade | Tuesday, 24 August 2010

Waterkloof Estate, home to 120 hectares of fynbos and vines on the idyllic outskirts of the Helderberg Winelands, has welcomed three new Percheron horses to its green brigade, all eager to take bio-dynamic farming in their stride.

The entire estate is treated as a holistic entity and Waterkloof, a strong follower of sustainable farming, steers clear of conventional pesticides and fertilisers. By utilising pure horse power in its vineyards, the estate not only improves the structure and quality of the soils, but also reduces its carbon footprint by relying on fewer heavy machinery and tractors in and around its aristocratic vines.

The feisty, eight year old Percheron mare, Dawn, and her two year old foul Sampson, who came from Plettenberg Bay, are joined by Louis, a 14 year veteran stemming from Senegal near Johannesburg. Completing Waterkloofs stable of Percherons is Lady G, who joined the farm in 2009 and was the first horse to get down and dirty for the love of European style wines. "Percherons only mature at the age of seven, therefore Louis has already earned the title as schoolmaster on the farm and he will be a good influence on little Sampson as we will pair them together during Sampsons training over the next three years," explains Christiaan Loots, the trotting trios new boss and farm manager at Waterkloof.

The farm rises up to 300 metres above sea level with the Hottentots-Holland and Helderberg Mountains as backdrop and descends to a mere four kilometres from the False Bay coast. This varying altitude differentiates the site-specific vineyard blocks from one another, each embracing its own particular set of circumstances that shape the wines. In Waterkloofs pursuit to capture the best quality and a unique sense of origin in each bottle, some of their grapes stem from elevated vineyards, which endure rather precariously on the steep slopes of the Schapenberg.

This elevated and somewhat dangerous terrain makes it almost impossible for the tractors to get to the vineyards. Thankfully the new horses can now also assist Christiaan and his team in removing boulders and undergrowth that are obscuring the way.

"Lady G is in her element with the new arrivals and she hit if off immediately with Dawn as they are both mares. With this strong female bond it seems that poor old Louis has his work cut out for him," chuckles Christiaan.

Waterkloof Estate also uses the manure of its own Dexter cows in the vineyards to put back the natural organisms, bacteria and fungi and create new life in the soil which was once treated by weed-killers and compacted by heavy tractors. In addition to the cow dung, they also use the straw from their horse stables; the grape skins and stems from their cellar; eggshells and natural scraps/leftovers from their restaurant, in addition to the weeds amongst the fynbos to create their own compost.

For more information on Waterkloof Estate contact Tel: 021 858 1292 or visitwww.waterkloofwines.co.za. ]]>http://www.mivinem.co.za/index.php?news=600Tue, 24 Aug 2010 15:06:41 +0200http://www.mivinem.co.za/index.php?news=600 Entries Open For Diners Club Winemaker Of The Year Award | Tuesday, 24 August 2010

Entries for the Diners Club Winemaker of the Year Award, one of the longest running and most prestigious awards for the South African wine industry, are now being awaited, says Diners Club Western Cape regional manager Jane Ledger. Previous winners include some of South Africas foremost pioneering winemakers such as Gnther Brzel, Sydney Back and Danie de Wet, to name just a few.

She said entries could now also be submitted for its companion competition, the Diners Club Young Winemaker of the Year Award. In both instances the closing date for entries is 1 October this year. The winners will be announced on 27 November at a gala function in the Winelands.In the case of the Winemaker of the Year competition, participants have to submit Sauvignon Blanc wines for judging, while young winemakers compete with unfortified dry red wines whether blends or cultivar wines. Participants in the Young Winemaker's category must be 30 years or younger at the time of the announcement.

Ledger said "2010 is a special year for the two competitions as this year we celebrate the 30th anniversary of the competition for winemakers and the 10th for young winemakers."Ledger said the competitions had consistently grown, both in stature and the number of entries over the years, having been established in the early 1980s by Hugh Peatling, then managing director of Diners Club and the late Peter Devereux, a well-known figure in wine circles. Its purpose was to identify each year the best wine in a specific category, and to reward its maker. The first winner was Walter Finlayson who had set a new standard with his memorable 1980 Blaauwklippen Zinfandel.

"Walter was subsequently followed by a host of top winemakers, among them his brother Peter whose name had become so closely associated with pinot noir.

"The introduction of the Young Winemaker of the Year Award ten years ago was a natural addition and has since its inception highlighted the exceptional talent of the new generation of winemakers," Ledger said. "This only bodes well for the future."

For the Winemaker of the Year competition participants must guarantee that a minimum of 150 cases of 12 x 750ml bottles - or the equivalent volume is available. In the case of young winemakers the minimum requirement is 25 cases of 12 x 750ml bottles.

Entry forms are available from the Diners Club website www.dinersclub.co.za. Entries must be delivered to the regional offices of Diners Club South Africa by close of business on 1 October. ]]>http://www.mivinem.co.za/index.php?news=596Fri, 20 Aug 2010 16:14:00 +0200http://www.mivinem.co.za/index.php?news=596 SA Brandy-King Of The World | Friday, 20 August 2010

A South African brandy has once again conquered the global spirits industrys expert palates and been voted Best Brandy in the World. The accolade, awarded Laborie Alambic Brandy at the 2010 International Wine & Spirits Competition (IWSC) just held in London, brings the number of times a local brandy has triumphed at this leading judging event to an astonishing nine times in the past 12 years. Its also the fourth consecutive year one of the countrys brandies has ruled the roost.

Shocked, but absolutely delighted, is how KWV brandy master distiller Kobus Gelderblom described his reaction to the news. Shocked, because we were expecting our other traditionally top-performing brandies such as the KWV 15 Year Old or the KWV 20 Year Old, both of which have been gold medalists at leading competitions this year and previously voted Best Brandy in the World, to get the nod. But delighted because its an estate brandy made in extremely limited quantities from grapes grown on Laborie, our Paarl wine estate.

Gelderblom was also particularly pleased with the result because it vindicates his passion for and belief in pinotage as a variety from which to distill fine brandy. This particular Laborie Alambic, a five-year-old pure potstill, is an unusual blend of mainly chardonnay with a touch of pinotage matured in old red wine oak barrels. The chardonnay gives structure, the pinotage adds wonderful peach and apricot aromas and flavours, and the whole was touched up with a bit of 10-year-old brandy to add complexity to the final blend, explains KWVs experienced master blender.

The IWSC is generally regarded as an international benchmark test of technical excellence and stylistic quality of the worlds finest wines and spirits. Its the most venerable, dating back to 1968 and running in its current format since 1978. Tasting is blind and conducted by panels of experts with world-class knowledge of the particular category and style theyre called upon to judge.

Says Riaan Marais, chairman of the South African Brandy Foundation: KWV, already an icon among South African brandies this is the sixth time KWV has won this award is part and parcel of the shining future of our local brandies. And its especially heartwarming to see this particular brandy, probably one of the KWVs less well-known products, be thus honoured.

South African brandies overall put in a remarkable performance at this years IWSC. All of the 31 products entered achieved either a gold (12) or a silver (19) medal. Notes veteran international wine and spirits judge, former distiller and one of the expert tasters at the IWSC, South Africas Dave Hughes: From among nearly 100 brandy entries, only 13 won gold medals. The only other country to win gold, with just one brandy deemed worthy of gold, was Spain.

Among the 12 South African gold medallists, six were voted best in their class and of the 19 silver medallists, three were tops in their category.

Besides the Laborie Alambic, the other South African brandies to win gold (and be voted best in their class) were Flight of the Fish Eagle, Oude Meester Souverein 18 Year Old, Oude Meester VSOB, Van Ryns 12 Year Old Distillers Reserve, Van Ryns 15 Year Old Fine Cask Reserve, Oude Molen Solera Grand Reserve and Uitkyk Grand Reserve 10 Year Old Estate Brandy. The other gold medallists included the KWV 15 Year Old, KWV Imoya VSOP, Oude Meester Reserve 12 Year Old and Klipdrift Export.

South Africas haul of 19 silvers was from a total of 50 awarded. Other silvers went to brandies from Australia, Bulgaria, Spain, France (not including Cognac which is judged in its own regional category), Mexico, USA, Canada and Greece. Other countries entering included Italy, Israel, Moldovia and Portugal.

The Laborie Alambics accolade, and the exceptional showing in general of South Africas brandies at the 2010 IWSC, crowns a year of spectacular show results for South Africas most popular spirit (about 45-million litres of brandy is made here each vintage, comprising nearly half of the total local spirits market).

Of extraordinary significance at this years specialist International Spirits Challenge (ISC) in the UK, for example, was that only South African products four of our brandies managed to earn gold medals in their respective categories. South Africa also received by far the most silver medals: five of only six awarded.

At Europes prestigious annual Concours Mondial de Bruxelles, also held recently, two South African brandies won gold: the KWV 15 Year Old and the Joseph Barry Cape Pot Still Brandy 10 Year (both are former IWSC Best Brandy in the World winners, in 2007 and 2009 respectively). Six local brandies won silver medals.

Although recent growth in the brandy market shows a welcome trend in the taste for premium brandies among consumers, what the local industry is particularly proud of is that South African brandies across the style spectrum (including every-day blended, premium pot-stilled and venerable vintage matured brandies) are being acknowledged internationally for their superior quality.

Adds Marais: And its not only the big distilleries with their well-known brands that are producing these winners; its the smaller distilleries and wine cellars as well, which shows the modern-day spread of quality and depth of passion for and skill in brandy-making in this country with its 350 years of tradition.

Marais also points out that South African brandies will be competing nationally at the Veritas Awards for the first time in the competitions 20 - year history. This new class at Veritas provides the South African brandy industry with a major local platform to show its mettle and advocate the consistent world-class quality of South African brandy to local consumers.

Laborie Alambic brandy is produced in limited quantities and is available from the Laborie Cellar tasting room and KWV Wines Wine Emporium in Paarl at R 126.00 for a 500ml bottle. ]]>http://www.mivinem.co.za/index.php?news=598Fri, 20 Aug 2010 16:13:37 +0200http://www.mivinem.co.za/index.php?news=598 Swartland Red Jerepigo‘s New Look | Friday, 20 August 2010

Ever a favourite brand from Swartland Winery, the Red Jerepigo is sporting a sophisticated new image with a label with elegant curves, rich gold and black colours and a soft matt finish. In line with the updating of all the Winerys ranges this popular wine shows its delicious contents from without to within. This is the glorious accompaniment to a decadent dessert or a ripe and flavourful cheese, the classic ending to a wonderful meal. With its sweet, raisin flavour this is definitely a must for everyone that appreciates a good dessert wine. Tradition, style and quality it all comes together in a bottle of Swartland Red Jerepigo ]]>http://www.mivinem.co.za/index.php?news=599Fri, 20 Aug 2010 16:13:00 +0200http://www.mivinem.co.za/index.php?news=599 Distell Celebrates Its 10th Anniversary | Friday, 20 August 2010

Distell, commemorating its tenth anniversary this year following the merging of Distillers Corporation and Stellenbosch Farmers Winery in 2000, has been given good cause to celebrate with the news that its flagship, Amarula, has been ranked as one of the worlds fastest-growing spirit brands by Drinks International. Data for the listing is researched by Euromonitor International and covers sales for the 2009 calendar year.

The "Spirit of Africa", which has also been accorded SuperBrand status by the SuperBrand Council of South Africa, is featured on the 2010 Drinks International Millionaires List, which ranks the worlds biggest-selling spirit brands. Amarula appears as the seventh biggest liqueur on the list and is one of only two to have recorded growth during the peak of the global recession. It also occupies 86th position on the 2010 Impact Databank Worlds Top 100 Premium Spirits Brands, up from 87th place a year ago.

Amarula now sells in 103 countries.

Also appearing on the Top 100 list is Klipdrift Export, in position 99. This is the first time the brand has featured on the list.

Commenting on the news, Dr Caroline Snyman, who heads Distells spirits business division said: "It is extremely gratifying that these two brands performed so well, especially during a time of great economic turbulence, when internationally the spirits segment as a whole, has been suffering from declining consumer spend."

She added that Amarula was continuing to expand sales, with double-digit year-on-year volume growth recorded for the 12 months to July 2010. "In terms of an agreement with the organisers of the 2010 FIFA World Cup ™, Amarula has been permitted to carry the official tournament branding to mark the event until the end of this year. This has certainly helped to advance Amarulas global profile but even in countries where there is no overt link with soccer, sales have been growing."

She said sales were particularly pleasing in South Africa, Germany, Spain, Switzerland, the US, Latin America, Asia Pacific and the international duty-free channel.

At the same time, Klipdrift, now available in almost 30 countries, had recorded good growth across Africa, Asia Pacific and the duty-free channel.

Euromonitor International has also ranked Distells two leading cider brands as top global players. Hunters is in second position and Savanna in third. Distell is the worlds third biggest player in the cider market. ]]>http://www.mivinem.co.za/index.php?news=597Fri, 20 Aug 2010 15:43:35 +0200http://www.mivinem.co.za/index.php?news=597 Constantia Glen Launches Sauvignon Blanc 2009 | Friday, 20 August 2010

Colour
Clear and bright, this wine shows a light straw colour tinged with lime green.

Nose
Hugely expressive with concentrated offerings of pungent, raw guava, nettles and greengage. Kiwi fruit accents offer interest and ripeness to an already complex perfume. A multi-layered offering that shows its depth with delicate mineral traces that offer insight into this wines origin-the cool Constantia region.

Palate
A full, rich and textured palate that has beautifully tempered acidity interwoven with ripe yellow fruits and a creamy finish. Herbal hints attracts deeper inspection that reveals a generous grip and tanginess on the silky finish. An opulent wine that is a perfect expression of the brilliant 2009 vintage. The bold structure indicates excellent development potential. This is a wine that will age with distinction.

Analysis
Alcohol - 13.32 % RS 1.1 g/lpH - 3.19 TA 6.6 g/lVA - 0.28 g/l

Food
Pairing Asparagus with olive and orange butter. Fresh tuna and caper crostini.Chicken with prosciutto, rosemary and white wine.

Additional notes
This is our first wine to include a notable component of Smillon (8%) in the perfectly balanced proportioned blend. Smillon adds a wonderful richness to the mouthfeel of the wine and lends additional capacity for ageing. We have experimented with the tiny Smillon vineyard on Constantia Glen since 2007 and found the ideal balance for inclusion in 2009. An additional feature of this spectacular wine is the miniscule but meaningful incorporation 4% barrel fermented and aged wine. Constantia as a region offers wine that age beautifully yet offers some elements of leanness in youth. Our aim with the barrel fermented portion was to add fullness and richness at the outset and in so doing fashion a complex and complete wine. We enjoy it and know that you will too. ]]>http://www.mivinem.co.za/index.php?news=593Wed, 18 Aug 2010 13:28:42 +0200http://www.mivinem.co.za/index.php?news=593 Neethlingshof‘s Pinotage An Innovative Viticulture | Wednesday, 18 August 2010

Neethlingshof winemaker, De Wet Viljoen, believes the distinctive character of his 2008 Owl Post Pinotage is the direct result of novel canopy management techniques in the vineyard and the way the grapes were vinified in the cellar. The 2008 has just been released onto the market.

The grapes came from a single registered block which is regularly audited by the Wine and Spirits Board. The 2,3 ha dryland vineyard was planted some 23 years ago on a slightly westerly slope where it grows in mainly Tukulu and Oakleaf soils.

To increase the complexity of the wine, the vineyard was divided into three more or less equal parts and different canopy management programmes followed in each of them. In one area, for instance, the leaves on the eastern side of the rows were cut back to let in the morning sun but retained on the western side to protect the grapes against the more intense heat in the afternoon.

For each of the three areas the aim was different: in the first area the objective was the highest possible flavour intensity in the grapes; in the second the accent was on fully-ripe fruit aromas and in the third the emphasis was on the classical berry flavours so typical of Pinotage.

The grapes from the three areas were vinified separately, with some of the juice of the first batch bled off to increase intensity. The final stage of fermentation took place in the barrel as did malolactic fermentation. "By completing fermentation in the barrel I believe we obtained a better integration of all the components of the wine, which on the taste is soft with gentle tannins," Viljoen says.

The wine was aged for a total of 14 months in 40% new Hungarian oak, and 20% American and 40% French second-fill barrels. It was then blended and bottled, and given enough time for all the components to meld into a harmonious whole before the wine was released onto the market.

"I strive for a distinctive character in our wines, wines that convey a sense of place, to use a hackneyed phrase. The soils on Neethlingshof are deep and fertile, and the vines that grow in them provide us with grapes of great intensity. So our Pinotage is made in the classic style, full but elegant, with slightly sweet undertones imparted by the Hungarian oak. On the nose it offers concentrated berry flavours and whiffs of roasted almonds while on the palate there is a rich fruitcake of tastes.

"The 2008 vintage was for us an excellent one, and this Pinotage exemplifies for me what we strive for in our wine. I also believe the approaches we followed in the vineyard and the cellar have not only produced a beautifully balanced wine but also opens up interesting possibilities for the future."

Viljoen said this particular Pinotage vineyard has also played a key role in the development of the estates approach to sustainable farming, which has since become central to its operations. "It was here that we first experimented using natural predators, in this case to combat rodents damaging the root systems of the vines.

"We erected owl posts from which owls could swoop down on the rodents while hunting at night. Due to the abundance of food the number of owls was soon on the increase and in time they also started breeding on Neethlingshof. Today there are owl posts in all the vineyard blocks as part of the estates integrated programme of pest control.

The wine is ready to be drunk now but will also age well for another five years or more. It is expected to retail for about R 130.00 per 750ml bottle. ]]>http://www.mivinem.co.za/index.php?news=595Wed, 18 Aug 2010 13:28:01 +0200http://www.mivinem.co.za/index.php?news=595 Juliet Cullinan Standard Bank Wine Festival 2010 | Wednesday, 18 August 2010

2010 celebrates the 20th Juliet Cullinan Standard Bank Festival with a decade of sponsorship by Standard Bank. It is now the longest running private, premium wine festival in the country and the longest sponsored festival in the history of Cape Wine.

We are delighted to announce the fabulous line-up of South Africa wineries to be as follows:

Alkmaar Boutique Vineyard, Ataraxia Wines, Bouchard Finlayson, Buitenverwachting, Cederberg Wines, Constantia Glen, Delaire Graff,De Wetshof, Durbanville Hills, Eagles Nest, Fleur du Cap, Glenelly,Groot Constantia, Iona, Jordan, Kaapzicht, Kleine Zalze, KWV,Tamboerskloof , Marianne, Meinert, Middelvlei, Mont du Toit, Morgenster, Mooiplaas, Muratie, Nederburg, Ormonde, Paul Cluver, Raka, Rijks, Rustenberg, Saronsberg, Saxonburg, Steenberg, Strandveld, Thelema/Sutherland, Vergelegen, Vrede en Lust, Waterford and Withington

And to add this list, we are excited to have some famous international brands present and available for tasting. Together, Great Domaines, International Wines and Wines of the World will treat us to tastings of Pol Roger Champagne, Elio Grasso Dolcetto d'Alba, William Fevre Chablis, Chateau Palmer, Chateau La Couronne, Spy Valley (New Zealand), Santa Alicia Reserve (Chile)

All these wines can be purchased through Makros Sip n Shop at special show prices.

Pick n Pay will be indulging us again with fabulous food, while Riverwoods Kitchens and Wine Cellars will be doing the dcor.

And to conclude, there is the fabulous prize draw!

Tickets cost R 100.00 per person, and include a wine glass, catalogue, and an evening of unlimited tastings. Bookings can be made by:
Emailing: accounts@julietcullinan.co.za
Online: www.julietcullinan.co.za
Bookings of 10 or more qualify for a 10% discount! ]]>http://www.mivinem.co.za/index.php?news=594Wed, 18 Aug 2010 13:27:07 +0200http://www.mivinem.co.za/index.php?news=594 Seductive Sauvignon Festival 2010 | Wednesday, 18 August 2010

Wine Concepts will host their eighth exclusive Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Sauvignon Festival at The Vineyard Hotel and Spa in August.

Treat your taste buds to a tantalising selection of just two varieties! This popular annual festival gives wine lovers the opportunity to taste and compare over 60 sexy Sauvignons from the 2010 vintage and latest release Cabernet Sauvignons.

Score a goal and purchase the showcased wines at special prices from Wine Concepts.

Venue: The Vineyard Hotel and Spa, Colinton Road, Newlands, Cape Town.
Date: Friday 27 August 2010
Time: 17.00 21.00
Cost: R 100.00 per person includes wine glass and light snacks.
Parking: Ample

Tickets can be purchased at the door on the evening or at any of the Wine Concepts branches, telephone Newlands at (021) 671 9030 or Kloof Street at (021) 426-4401 to book or via email: newlandshop@wineconcepts.co.za ]]>