wine l ist - the royal elephant hotel & conference centre. · guava and pineapple. ... dom...
TRANSCRIPT
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INTRODUCTION
At Zagora, our collection of wines has been carefully chosen and covers a wide range of wine regions and cultivars, but most importantly has been selected to compliment the flavours
from our menu. Our wine list represents some of the best wines that South Africa has to offer as well as international wines
CONTENT
Mineral Water
House Wine and Wine by the Glass Selection
Champagne
Méthode Cap Classique
Elegant Carbonated Sparkling Wines
Sauvignon Blanc
Chardonnay Chenin Blanc
Other White Cultivars White Blends
Rosé, Blanc de Noir, and Sweet Wines
Cabernet Sauvignon Shiraz
Merlot Pinotage
Pinot Noir Other Red Cultivars
Red Blends
Cellar Selection
Dessert Wines, Port and Cape Port
Sherry, Grappa and Muscadel
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CORKAGE
It is not so uncommon for wine lovers to bring their own wine to a restaurant. As a general rule, bring a special or rare wine which is unlikely to be on the wine list.
To be considerate to our diners, corkage fee is levied in line with the
price of our best sellers on the wine list. Wine and Sparkling Wine R 95
Champagne R150
Appreciating old wine is like making love to a very old lady. It is possible. It can even be enjoyable. But it requires a bit of imagination. Andre Tchelistcheff
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MINERAL WATER
Bottled water began in the mid '80s. The bottled water market really boomed between 1990 and present day. Bottling water made water a market source allowing for a healthy alternative to bottled sodas and other
similar products.
Acqua Panna Still 750ml – R50
The Acqua Panna spring is located in Tuscany within the 1300 hectare park surrounding Villa Panna. A fully protected Natural Reserve since 1564.
-Italy-
San Pellegrino Sparkling 750ml – R50
Naturally occurring carbonation and additional carbonation added by the bottler. San Pellegrino mineral water has been produced for over 600 years.
-Italy-
Vivreau Still 1 Liter– R25 | Sparkling 1l – R25
Still 425ml – R15 | Sparkling 425ml – R15 Our environmentally positive water is helping reduce our carbon footprint.
Established in the late 80’s, Vivreau has grown to become the Global leader in the development and manufacture of purified drinking water systems. The installation of our Table Water Bottling System, with re-usable Designer glass bottles for pure chilled still and sparkling water, has an immediate and
dramatic impact on our carbon footprint.
Water, the Hub of Life. Water is its mater and matrix,
Mother and medium. Water is the most extraordinary substance! Practically all its properties are anomolous,
which enabled life to use it as building material for its machinery. Life is water dancing to the tune of solids.
Albert Szent-Gyorgyi (1972)
4
My grandmother is over eighty and still doesn’t need glasses. Drinks right out of the bottle.
Henny Youngman
R110 R30
R110 R30
R110 R30
R110 R30
R130 R30
R235 R60
R110 R30
R130 R35
R140 R40
R265 R70
R150 R40
HOUSE WINE and WINE BY THE GLASS SELECTION
WHITE WINES
Ken Forrester Petit Sauvignon Blanc Lovely complexity with mix of tropical fruit, tangy grassy notes, fig leaves and nectarine
nuances with crisp dry finish.
Ken Forrester Petit Unwooded Chenin Blanc A youthful wine showing fresh ripe melon with a mellow, round, mild and honeysuckle
fruit palate and a refreshingly long finish.
Ken Forrester Petit Rosé A bright salmon tinted dry Rosé wine with aromas of freshly picked strawberries
and maraschino cherries. Lovely juicy red-berried palate with delicate finish.
Ken Forrester Petit Semi Sweet A decidedly moreish wine with a powerhouse of flavours the likes of ripe melon,
guava and pineapple. The finish is tangy and irresistible with honey notes.
Ridgeback Vansha White A juicy blend of fresh Sauvignon Blanc with tropical Chenin Blanc notes and a
lingering white peach finish from rich, ripe Viognier.
RED WINES
Allesverloren Cabernet Sauvignon Rich and full-bodied wine with a good tannic structure, lots of berry fruit flavours such as
blackcurrant and cherries with undertones of dark chocolate.
Ken Forrester Petit Pinotage Huge dollops of ripe berry fruit on the nose. Soft and rich on the palate, with a delicious
fruit concentration.
Ridgeback Vansha Red Upfront notes of mulberry and dark cherries evolve to hints of mint and leather. A soft, juicy
mid-palate is well supported by the elegant oak tannin and long savoury finish.
Ridgeback Vansha SGMV A medium bodied red wine with floral aromatics of cherries, sweet red fruit and mineral
earthiness supported by a firm oak tannin structure and a long savoury finish.
Rupert and Rothschild classique A medium bodied red wine with floral aromatics of cherries, sweet red fruit and mineral
earthiness supported by a firm oak tannin structure and a long savoury finish.
DESSERT WINE
Nederburg Noble Late Harvest Bright yellow colour with golden specs. Aromas of dried peaches, apricot and honey supported by a spicey background. Perfectly balanced sugar and acid ratio with dried fruit and vanilla spice with a lively aftertaste.
5
CHAMPAGNE
The Romans were the first to plant vineyards in the area of northeast France with the region
being cultivated by at least the 5th century, possibly earlier. Wines from the Champagne region were known before medieval times. Churches owned vineyards and monks produced wine for use in the sacrament of Eucharist. French kings were traditionally anointed in Reims and
champagne wine was served as part of coronation festivities. Champagne was perfected by a Benedictine Monk from Hautvilliers, Dom Perignon, some 300 years ago and needs no introduction.
Dom Pérignon NV – R2,750 The House would like to keep its blend a secret
Light gold in the glass, with a hint of green and very fine bubbles, this wine has a bright, mineral-driven nose of sourdough toast and wet rock aromas. Gorgeously smooth in the mouth with a very fine mousse of
bubbles that bring out flavours of bright lemon and crackers, with lemon zest, sourdough and sweet tarts lingering in the finish. Gorgeous acidity, fantastic balance.
-France-
Moët and Chandon Brut NV – R850 The House would like to keep its blend a secret
A very approachable Champagne that is light and fresh-tasting. With age it generally takes on more toasted qualities and added complexity.
-France-
MÉTHODE CAP CLASSIQUE
In South Africa we produce sparkling wines using the traditional French Méthode Champenoise. By law it is not allowed to be called Champagne as the product was not made in France.
We have however got a few gems that are just as good as the French!
Pongrácz Brut NV 750ml – R210 | 375ml – R130
60% Chardonnay, 40% Pinot Noir Delicate yeasty tones, layered with toast and ripe fruit are enlivened by a firm mousse and persistent
bead that make it particularly attractive. It imparts a wonderful foamy mouthful of black fruit flavours with a long lingering aftertaste.
-Coastal-
Pierre Jourdan Cuvée Belle Rosé NV – R230
100% Pinot Noir A tinge of salmon pink, a lively presentation of Pinot Noir flavours, a pleasing fine mousse
which reveals an elegant dry finish. -Western Cape, Franschhoek-
The chief reason for drinking is the desire to behave in a certain way,
and to be able to blame it on alcohol. Mignon McLaughlin,
The Neurotic’s Notebook, 1960
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ELEGANT CARBONATED SPARKLING WINES
JC le Roux Le Domain NV – R120
It has all the finesse and freshness of a Sauvignon Blanc, intertwined with the gentle sweetness of the Muscadel.
-Western Cape-
Robertson Non-Alcoholic NV – R95 A semi-sweet alcohol free sparkling full of delicate fruit, bubbles and sunshine.
Beautifully packaged under cork. -Robertson-
SAUVIGNON BLANC
The name derives from Sauvage, meaning wild, which could well describe it’s grassy, gooseberry flavours. This is a very distinctive dry white wine that varies in style from light to quite full-bodied, from crisp grass,
flinty, and asparagus through to more tropical tones with hints of ripe figs.
Springfield Life from Stone – R225
Brilliant greenish in appearance, this is a dramatic wine full of ripe red peppers and passion fruit, flavours of mineral and flint (gun smoke).
-Robertson-
Meinert La Barry – R170
Delicate floral fruit with underlying grassier tones, but is gentle enough to keep coming back for another glass. -Devon Valley, Elgin-
La Motte – R150
Shows a distinct intensity of gooseberry, green apple, lime and pineapple to reveal its varietal
characteristics. A firm natural acid keeps the palate in balance with sugar ensuring a lively freshness. -Western Cape, Franschhoek, Walker Bay-
Ken Forrester Petit – R110
Lovely complexity with mix of tropical fruit, tangy grassy notes, fig leaves and nectarine
nuances with crisp dry finish. -Western Cape,Stellenbosch-
I am drinking the stars! Dom Perignon, on his first sip of Champagne
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SAUVIGNON BLANC CONTINUED
WOODED
Anthonij Rupert Cape Point Altima Reserve 2012 – R220
The wine shows a complex array of tropical fruit, grapefruit and limes all held together by an incredible mineral backbone.The palate is focused and racy, made in a style to be a wonderful food companion.
-Cape Point-
CHARDONNAY
South Africa, the relative newcomer in this sector now produces some outstanding examples. The flavours are often bold and expansive and range from light peach, pineapple, melon and limes in the unwooded
styles to ripe summer fruits, nuts, butterscotch, vanilla and fresh toast in the barrel- matured styles.
UNWOODED
Groote Post – R170
This wine invites you with a lovely deep straw green colour. Its flavours are full of citrus and lime with a generous palate of marmalade and preserved ginger.
-Darling, Coastal-
De Wetshof Bon Vallon – R175
Fresh, lemony flavoured wine with a yeasty nutty finish. Lively, aromatic and great with food. -Robertson-
WOODED
Meerlust – R400
The nose exhibits toasted nuts, marzipan and honey notes. On the palate, the wine is full bodied and generous, retaining a vivacious freshness and crisp acidity. The mid palate is packed with
creamy mouthfeel and expressive minerality. -Stellenbosch-
Tokara Reserve Collection Walker Bay – R300
There are intense flavours of lemon preserve toasted almonds and freshly baked brioche. The wine has a focused mid palate with notes of lime zest and spice and then finishes fresh and crisp.
The oak is just supportive with hints of butterscotch, baked bread and toasted almonds. -Walker Bay-
La Motte – R230
Pineapple and grapefruit with a hint of dried peaches in the background. Wood maturation appears in the form of straw and toffee. Medium to light in style, but complex, with layers of fruit and yeast.
This chardonnay with its whiffs of peach and tropical melons on the nose and well integrated oak is drinking beautifully. This wine is all about pleasure. Elegant and refined.
-Western Cape, Franschhoek, Walker Bay-
What’s drinking? A mere pause from thinking! George Gordon, Lord Byron, The Deformed Transformed
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CHENIN BLANC
South Africa has even more Chenin Blanc vineyards than the France’s Loire Valley, the home of Chenin Blanc.
This is a very diverse variety that possesses a built-in balance of strength and acidity that makes it capable of many styles, from light, fresh, crisp apples to the more typical guava flavours often with touches of winter
melon and peach, that add to a richer, sometimes spicy character in the barrel- matured styles.
Groote Post – R125
A bright, full-styled Chenin with a tropical fruit-salad palate and green apple flavours. A very good length and body.
-Darling, Coastal-
Ken Forrester Petit – R110
A youthful wine showing fresh ripe melon with a mellow, round, mild and honeysuckle fruit palate and a refreshingly long finish.
-Stellenbosch-
DeWaal Young Vines – R110
Crisp and refreshing with notes of peach, passion fruit and juicy citrus. -Stellenbosch-
OTHER WHITE CULTIVARS
Groote Post Weisser Riesling – R210
Hints at a subdued floral and fragrant nose with wafts of honeysuckle and jasmine. A fresh, spicy palate that's subtly aromatic and exotic, redolent of dried peaches and ginger. Semi-sweet and well-rounded.
-Darling, Durbanville-
Anthonij Rupert Terra del Capo Pinot Grigio – R170
An elegant white wine that shows a good white fruit, lemon, crisp appearance that follows through onto a palatable smooth mouth feel with a balance of acidity. Both the nose and palate contain fresh crisp apple, nectarine and peachy fruit salad. There's a pineapple tang and creamy texture
in the mouth. The balance between fruit and lively acidity is well maintained with a rich, tropical fruit aftertaste.
-Franschhoek-
De Wetshof Rhine Reisling – R180
Candied, spiced aromas with a softening edge after taste. -Paarl-
Woman first tempted man to eat; he took to drinking of his own accord.
Four Hundred Laughs: Or, Fun Without Vulgarity,
Compiled and edited by John R. Kemble, 1902
9
OTHER WHITE CULTIVARS CONTINUED
Bon Courage Gewürztraminer Special Late Harvest – R130
An elegant medium to full sweet white wine with delicate spicy and rose petal fragrances and a
hint of botrytis. Turkish delight-like nose mingles with honeysuckle and jasmine. Slow flow across the palate with tropical fruit salad in the mouth. Rich and full mouth feel with luscious,
yet balanced finish with enough zesty acid to make whole mouth appear smooth and rounded rather than particularly sweet.
-Robertson-
Cederberg Bukettraube – R170
Exotic, delicate floral and fruit salad aromas, with a hint of honey, dried peach and ripe muscat. All natural sugar with a bracing fresh finish. Cut grass with a grapefruit aftertaste. Slightly different!
-Cederberg, Elim-
WHITE BLENDS
The best of both worlds. A blend offers easy drinking and shows the best attributes of all the wines.
Haute Cabrière – R175
60% Chardonnay, 40% Pinot Noir Refined and elegant, with a firm acidity in the background. You’ll find an abundance of ripe zesty fruit, with a
delectable fresh and full mouth feel. Tropical fruit and citrus aromas follow through on to the palate. -Western Cape, Franschhoek-
Ridgeback Vansha White – R130
44% Sauvignon Blanc, 35% Chenin Blanc, 21% Viognier
A juicy blend of fresh Sauvignon Blanc with tropical Chenin Blanc notes and a lingering white peach finish from rich, ripe Viognier.
-Paarl, Western Cape-
Nederburg Ingenuity White – R400
15% Semillon, 14% Weisser Riesling, 14% Chardonnay, 10% Chenin Blanc, 8% Viognier, 2% Gewürztraminer, 2% Verdelho
Clear colour with specs of green and gold. Fresh green aromas layered with floral, peach and spice notes. A bold and exciting wine which is commanding yet subtle. Creamy-textured with a core of racy acidity and an
amalgam of generous and enveloping fruit flavours enriched by partial fermentation and ageing in wood. -Darling, Stellenbosch, Philadelphia, Paarl, Durbanville and Paarl-
Lomond Snowbush – R260
55% Sauvignon Blanc, 30% Semillon, 15% Viognier
Full-bodied with a rich mouthfeel and an excellent balance between the fruit and wood -Cape Agulhas-
Always do sober what you said you’d do drunk. That will teach you to keep your mouth shut.
Ernest Hemingway
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BLANC DE NOIR, ROSÉ AND SEMI SWEET
In the past, it was fairly common to make Rosé wines by simply taking a white wine and adding a bit of red
wine to it. Some winemakers thought this could produce interesting wines that possessed some of the hearty character of a red wine while retaining the crispness of many whites.
Boschendal Blanc de Noir – R105
40% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Shiraz
The Merlot imparts a lovely bright Cerise colour to the wine. On the nose the wine displays perfume and ripe summer fruit flavours, including red cherry and strawberry, versatile off-dry wine
with delicious, elegant flavours. -Paarl-
Ken Forrester Petit Semi Sweet – R110
100% Chenin Blanc
A decidedly moreish/lekker wine with a powerhouse of flavours the likes of ripe melon, guava and pineapple. The finish is tangy and irresistible with honey notes.
-Western Cape, Stellenbosch-
Ken Forrester Petit Rosé – R110
100% Grenache A bright salmon tinted dry Rosé wine with aromas of freshly picked strawberries and
maraschino cherries. Lovely juicy red-berried palate with delicate finish. -Western Cape, Stellenbosch-
I like to keep a bottle of stimulant handy in case I see a snake, which I also keep handy. W.C. Fields
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CABERNET SAUVIGNON
The king of red wines, this is the most recognizable and versatile of red grapes. Cabernet always shows great
character, the underlying style is Cassis fruit interwoven with spice, sometimes herbaceous, sometimes Mocha coffee beans, but always a generous helping of tannin for added structure.
Allesverloren – R235
Deep ruby red colour. An abundance of prune, blackcurrant and cherry aromas with oak spice and cigar box in the background. A rich and full-bodied wine with a good tannic structure, lots of berry
fruit flavours such as blackcurrant and cherries with undertones of dark chocolate. -Swartland-
Waterford – R370
Cedar wood, lead pencil and cassis with tinges of white chalk, a classic Cabernet Sauvignon. -Stellenbosch-
Tokara – R200
Cassis cherries and cedar with underlying hints of toasted oak and lead pencil. A great purity of fruit showing dense dark fruit with a hint of mocha and spice. Appealing, pleases with cassis tones, spicy touches. The nose shows intense cassis and cedar followed by a palate of great
purity of fruit and spice. -Coastal-
La Motte – R300
The wine reflects varietal aromas on the nose, with wild berries, tomato leaf, cedar, cinnamon spice, dark chocolate and truffle prominent. The heavy-bodied palate has a firm structure, but a fine
tannin texture and a pleasant dry after-taste. -Western Cape, Franschhoek, Walker Bay-
Springfield Whole Berry – R290
A velvety wine with softer tannins and classical varietal characteristics -Robertson-
SHIRAZ
Shiraz, alias Syrah, the wine for red wine lovers. Its inherent spiciness is surrounded by a combination of red and black summer berries, then laced with seductive smoky tones and touches of leather,
often with that subtle hint of “garrigue” as the French would say, but we prefer “fynbos.”
Zandvliet Kalkveld – R340
Dark red colour, bordering on purple. Well-balanced powerful nose with mulberries intermingled with hints of mocha, nutmeg and dark chocolate. A rose petal perfume rounds off the intense nose.
Restrained and elegant at first glance with the nose following through. Very well integrated wood and ripe tannins make for a lingering aftertaste.
-Robertson-
Even though a number of people have tried, no one has yet found a way to drink for a living.
Jean Kerr
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If you know someone who tries to drown their sorrows, you might tell them
sorrows know how to swim Quoted in P.S. I Love You,
compiled by H. Jackson Brown, Jr.
SHIRAZ CONTINUED
Cederberg – R340
Intense Shiraz fruit. Generous dark chocolate, roasted coffee and mulberry fruit with lots of spice.
-Cederberg, Elim-
Waterford Kevin Arnold – R450
Intense aroma of mulberry, spices and red currants. The palate is seamless and full bodied, classic dry tannins countering the voluptuous nature of a Stellenbosch Shiraz.
-Stellenbosch-
Tokara Shiraz – R200
Dark red fruits, cassis and cherries with an underlying hint of Karoo bush and earthy notes carrying through to intense berry flavours coupled with hints of sage and a black pepper spice finish.
Complex sun-dried tomato, lily and black pepper aromas pad out its stern oak tannins, add to ready-to-drink appeal.
-Stellenbosch-
MERLOT
Merlot is the “Juliet” to Cabernet Sauvignon’s “Romeo”. The feminine lines deliver plum and mulberry fruit, often with a delicious helping of chocolate. If not chocolate, then it leans
more to the herbaceous, mineral style, but still supported by those delicious red fruits.
Meinert Family Collection Italian Job White – R345
Delightful onion skin colour. Delicate rose petal and strawberry whiff, a little smokey. The taste is flinty, buttery, almost salty, with a crisp finish, fabulously unique.
-Devon Valley, Elgin-
Linton Park – R365
Plumy and stewed fruit on the nose, with rich plum ripe fruit on the palate along with an almond touch. Well balanced with a delicate oak finish.
-Paarl-
Steenberg – R315
This multi layered merlot show flavours of buchu, basil and mint on the nose. As it opens up, it flows into dark chocolate and cederwood. Intense and fine tannins give structure and
length to the wine that finishes with great concentration and weight. -Constantia, Western Cape Coastal-
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MERLOT CONTINUED
Zevenwacht – R165
Rich and generous with plush concentrated flavours of plums, chocolate and a combination of red and black cherries. Waves of up front ripe red fruit, ripe strawberries with hints of red
cherries that cover the palate from start to finish. -Stellenbosch-
Audacia – R170
A soft, elegant, striking red wine with pencil shavings and red fruit aromas on the nose,
partnered with lingering plums on the palate. Soft, cotton-like-tannins ensures for a delicious red wine experience in every glass.
-Stellenbosch-
PINOTAGE
South Africa’s “national grape” was developed in the 1920’s and is a cross between Pinot Noir and Cinsaut. Made in a range of styles from simply fruity to ambitious.
Beyerskloof – R145
Dark fruit and red cherry flavours and hints of oak aromas. A balanced wine with good structure
and a smooth finish. -Stellenbosch, Western Cape, Coastal-
Middelvlei – R200
Made exclusively from free-run juice, naturally drained off the freshly crushed grapes.
The appearance is a deep ruby red with violet edges. On the nose you’ll find sweet raspberry aromas with mulberry undertones and elegant oak spices. The palate shows a medium bodied
wine packed with fruit flavours. -Devon Valley-
Ken Forrester Petit – R110
Huge dollops of ripe berry fruit on the nose. Soft and rich on the palate, with a delicious fruit concentration.
-Western Cape, Stellenbosch-
Beyerskloof Pinotage Reserve – R250
Juicy and voluptuous fruit entry gives way to a delicate balance between acidity and tannin. A long, lingering finish with a sweet berry and well integrated oak aftertaste.
-Stellenbosch, Western Cape, Coastal-
DeWaal Pinotage CT – R310
A full, fruity wine with flavours of ripe plums and cherries; rich with a persistent finish. Well integrated wood.
-Stellenbosch-
How come if alcohol kills millions of brain cells, it never killed the ones
that made me want to drink? Author Unknown
14
PINOT NOIR
.Although light in colour the texture is deliciously full. There is an inherent gaminess on the palate
with a definite showing of Morello cherries, add to this some nice floral tones of violets
WOODED
Hamilton Russell – R625
Their location gives rise to a certain tightness, tannin line and elevated length to balance the richness and generosity of their Pinot noir. Not overtly fruity, soft and “sweet” and it generally shows
hints of that alluring savoury “primal” character along with a dark, spicy, complex primary fruit perfume. -Hemel-en-Aarde Valley-
Haute Cabrière – R385
Dark fruit backed by perfectly integrated tannins. Mature cherry and tea leaf aromas on the nose.
An elegant red wine with flavours that linger long on the palate. -Western Cape, Franschhoek-
UNWOODED
Haute Cabrière – R190
The brilliant red colour is indicative of the elegant red berry aromas, which follow through to the palate showing enticing, concentrated ripe cherry and cranberry flavours.
-Western Cape, Franschhoek-
OTHER RED CULTIVARS
Anthonij Rupert Terra del Capo Sangiovese – R170
Hints of smokiness, cherry tobacco, combined with earthy mineral elements and rich fruit flavours such as prunes and apricots. The aroma and flavour are reminiscent of strawberry jam, dried cherry and raspberry
with an earthy meatiness on the palate. -Franschhoek-
Here's to the corkscrew - a useful key to unlock the storehouse of wit, the treasury of laughter, the front door of fellowship, and the gate of pleasant folly.
W.E.P. French
15
A woman drove me to drink and I never even had the courtesy to thank her. W.C. Fields
RED BLENDS
The majority of South Africa’s red blends are based around the “Bordeaux Formula”, namely Cabernet
and Merlot based, however there are a growing number that are bringing Shiraz into the mix and combinations of other varietals. The styles in general all lend themselves to partnering the spectrum
of our wonderful red meats.
CAPE BORDEAUX BLEND
Neethlingshof Short Story Collection The Caracal – R345
Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Petit Verdot Dark, intense red colour. Plum, blackcurrant and cherry aromas supported by oak, cedar and vanilla notes.
A full-bodied, muscular and smooth wine with prune and blackcurrant flavours and firm but supple tannins. -Stellenbosch-
RHONE BLEND
Creation – R310
77% Syrah and 23% Grenach Dark purple in colour, almost black, with flashes of deep crimson. Alluring aromas of ripe black olive beckon from the glass, elegantly complemented by whiffs of pepper. A well-endowed, full-bodied Rhone-style blend rewarding with intense flavours of ripe plum, black pepper and the smokiness characteristic of Syrah. Supple,
ripe tannins and well-integrated, natural acidity contribute to the appeal. -Walker Bay-
Ridgeback Vansha SGMV – R140
85% Shiraz, 6% Grenache, 6% Mourvèdre, 3% Viognier
A medium bodied red wine with floral aromatics of cherries, sweet red fruit and mineral arthiness supported by a firm oak tannin structure and a long savoury finish
-Paarl, Western Cape-
Ridgeback Vansha Red – R130
35% Shiraz, 33% Cabernet Sauvignon, 26% Merlot, 6% Petit Verdot Upfront notes of mulberry and dark cherries evolve to hints of mint and leather. A soft, juicy
mid-palate is well supported by the elegant oak tannin and long savoury finish. -Paarl, Western Cape-
CABERNET SAUVIGNON BLEND
Vilafonté Series C – R740
74% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Merlot, 9% Cabernet Franc, 6% Malbec Takes its name from the Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc which predominantly defines
the style of this wine. Firm, powerful and concentrated wine, rich in fruit at release and blended for long aging. Cabernet Franc displays hints of violet flowers and elegance while the Merlot
component gives it a velvety texture . -Paarl-
16
RED BLENDS CONTINUED
Rupert and Rothschild Classique – R265
45% Cabernet Sauvignon 35% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc
Elegant and appealing with aromas of red berries, sweet cherries, white pepper and cedarwood with undertones of aniseed and almond. Good complexity with dark chocolate and flinty
undertones on the palate. -Western Cape-
Rupert and Rothschild Baron Edmond – R675
53% Cabernet Sauvignon, 38% Merlot, 9% Cabernet Franc Aromas of plum, cherries and blackcurrant. Smooth and seductive with dark chocolate,
roasted coffee bean and mocha flavours which linger into a pleasing, soft finish. -Western Cape-
MERLOT BLEND
Vilafonté Series M – R580
39% Merlot, 44% Cabernet Sauvignon, 14% Malbec, 3% Cabernet Franc Takes its name from the Malbec and Merlot which predominantly define the style of this wine.
Sensuous wine with a firm core structure for aging. Malbec provides its black fruit aromas and fleshy texture, Merlot adds softness and red fruit aromas, and Cabernet Sauvignon
provides structure. -Paarl-
Groot Constantia Constantia Rood – R210
Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinotage, Malbec Medium bodied wine blended to elegant perfection. Lovely red berry and plum flavours.
-Constantia-
CELLAR SELECTION
Ken Forrester FMC – R550
A big, bold, gorgeous, wooded wine. Complex, full palate showing vanilla and honey flavours and a forever
finish. Powerful and gorgeous tropical fruit flavours, with voluptuous body and ultra-long, satiny finish. -Western Cape, Stellenbosch-
Ken Forrester The Gypsy – R580
57% Grenache, 29% Syrah, 14% Mourvèdre The character is somewhat "wild" a little brambly with hints of nutmeg, cinnamon, dark spices,
with vanilla scents and a distinct, concentrated red-fruit focus. A very concentrated, focused blend, with layers of deep fruit.
-Western Cape, Stellenbosch-
This is one of the disadvantages of wine: It makes a man mistake words for thought.
Samuel Johnson
17
Life’s a waste of time,Time’s a waste of life So let’s all get wasted and have the time of our life. Author Unknown
CELLAR SELECTION CONTINUED
Thelema The Mint Cabernet Sauvignon – R420
Concentrated cassis, mocha and dark chocolate flavours spring to the fore, with a distinctive fresh mint character.
-Stellenbosch-
Cape Chamonix Pinot Noir Reserve – R600
Ruby red colour, with notes of cherry, wild red berries, crushed black pepper, cinnamon and violets on the nose. Although firm in structure, intense in flavour, textures are mellow and round,
expanding with time to extraordinary opulence and length. -Franschhoek-
Springfield Méthode Ancienne Cabernet Sauvignon – R700
Hints of cigar box, cassis, cloves and toasty oak. Firm blackberry and complex mineral flavours.
-Robertson-
Warwick Estate Trilogy – R480
64% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Cabernet Franc, 18% Merlot The wine displays an intense brick red dark colour. On the nose the wine expresses intense Cedar, herbaceous spiciness and lots of wild berries and black olive aromas. On the palate the full rounded
feel of the well ripened tannins slowly gives way to roasted almonds, vanilla and coffee flavours, and another hit of wild berries on the aftertaste.
-Stellenbosch-
Waterford The Jem – R1,200
Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Malbec, Cabernet Franc, Mourvèdre, Sangiovese, Barbera Hints of lead pencil shavings are infused with a truffle like flavours that combine to show spice and
earthiness. Layers of finely integrated tannins combine with fruit flavours to offer an elegant yet long lasting finish that is classically dry and rewarding.
-Stellenbosch-
Hartenberg Shiraz – R575
Expect rich black fruit flavours, dominated by cherries, white pepper and violets on the nose. -Stellenbosch-
Bouchard Finlayson Galpin Peak – R720
Perhaps best described as most typically Pinot Noir like in flavour as previous vintages which could have been defined as more dark and robust. A beautiful wine, deftly balanced with lots
of red berry fruit character and pretty floral aromas. -Walker Bay-
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I think a man ought to get drunk at least twice a year just on principle, so he won’t let himself get snotty about it.
Raymond Chandler
DESSERT WINES
These historic vineyards were first planted in the late 1600s as part of the original Constantia estate, whose legendary sweet wines were celebrated in literature by Jane Austen, Charles Dickens and Baudelaire.
Fleur du Cap Noble Late Harvest – R230
84% Chenin Blanc, 11% Semillon, 5% Muscat The wine is brilliant gold with lime green specs. On the nose the wine shows attractive aromas of honey,
pineapple and s ome spicy notes with typical dusty botrytis aromas in the background. On the palate it shows dried apricot and peaches.
-Western Cape, Stellenbosch-
Nederburg Noble Late Harvest – R150
90% Chenin Blanc, 10% Riesling Bright yellow colour with golden specs. Aromas of dried peaches, apricot and honey supported by a spicey
background. Perfectly balanced sugar and acid ratio with dried fruit and vanilla spice with a lively aftertaste. -Coastal-
Neetlingshof Maria Noble Late Harvest – R220
100% Riesling Golden yellow colour. Fruit cake, dried apricot, honey and peach aromas. Concentrated fruit cake with
honey and marmalade and a good sugar acid balance with a fresh, fruity palate. -Stellenbosch-
PORT AND CAPE PORT
Port wine (also known as Vinho do Porto, Oporto, Porto, and often simply Port) is a sweet Portuguese forti-fied wine from the Douro Valley in the Northern provinces of Portugal. Several imitations of Port are pro-
duced around the world in several countries -most notably Australia, South Africa, India and the United States.
Allesverloren Fine Old Vintage – R18
20% Tinta Barocca, 20% Souzao, 20% Pontac, 10% Touriga Naçional, 10% Tinta Röriz, 10% Malvasia Rey, 10% Tinta Francesca
Deep ruby red colour. An abundance of alluring blackcurrant, raisin, fruit cake and honey aromas, smooth fruit cake finish.
-Swartland-
De Krans The Original Cape Pink – R22
Touriga Nacional, Tinta Barocca, Souzao Medium-bodied, youthful with fruity, spicy flavours and balanced sweetness.
-Calitzdorp-
Ferreiras Late Bottled Vintage – R28 Bright red colour and has a very intense bouquet of rich ripe fruits.
-Portugal-
De Krans Cape Tawny – R20
Drops tinta roriz from usual combo with tinta, touriga but demains delicious. -Calitzdorp-
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SHERRY
Sherry is a fortified wine, made in and around the town of Jerez, Spain and hence in Spanish it is called "Vino de Jerez". In earlier times sherry was known as sack. Sherry differs from other wines
because of how it is treated after fermentation.
Monis Full Cream – R15 This sherry is mouth filling, laced with nuts and wood.
-Breede River Valley, Calitzdorp-
Monis Medium Cream – R15 This sherry is mellow and smooth with an elusive underlying sweetness.
-Breede River Valley, Calitzdorp-
Monis Pale Dry – R15 Aromatic and crisp with a refreshingly dry character.
-Breede River Valley, Calitzdorp-
Tio Pepe Extra Dry Palomino – R45 A delectable, pale, dry, slightly nutty and elegant fino.
-Spain-
GRAPPA
The name Grappa is derived from Graspa, the Italian term for the husks left over after the wine making process has been completed.
Antonella Grappa – R35 Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Trentino
An aromatic bouquet of creamy, dark chocolate. The aftertaste is nutty and long lingering. -Italy-
MUSCADEL
On 2nd February 1659 the founder of Cape Town, Jan van Riebeeck, produced the first wine recorded in South Africa. But it was Hendrik Cloete, who bought the homestead in 1778,
who really made the name of Constantia famous.
Bon Courage White Muscadel – R35
Rich and gold in colour with an intense Muscat and raison bouquet, all confirmed on the palate. A well balanced dessert wine with a lingering aftertaste.
-Robertson-
KWV Red Muscadel – R15
Expressive muscat scents, flavours. Smooth, sweet and lingering -Paarl-
If you are young and you drink a great deal it will spoil your health, slow your mind, make you fat – in other words, turn you into an adult.
P.J. O’Rourke