Wines subject to availability 1 The African Wild Dog (in the Tswana language, "Makanyane"), which has been successfully re-established in Madikwe, is on the WWF Endangered Species List. The Madikwe region is richly steeped in history. Famous (and infamous) figures such as David Livingstone, Cecil John Rhodes and the Zulu chief Mzilikazi all left their mark in this corner of South Africa. But traces of humanity in the area stretch far into the distant past. Middle Stone Age artifacts dating back 250 000 years have been found in Madikwe and several Iron Age sites, dating from 1400 to 1700 AD have been discovered. Artifacts from the Khoisan people have also been found lying in forgotten valleys and caves in the region. In the early 19th century, a large Tswana village was thriving near the centre of what is now the reserve. During this period, known as the Difaqane, a violent period of unrest in South Africa, civil wars raged across the Madikwe region, almost destroying the Tswana culture in the area. The name Marico is derived from a Tswana word meaning 'drenched with blood' - a reference to a battle in 1823 where the Hurutshe town of Kaditshwene in the Marico River valley, one of the largest towns in southern Africa at that time, was completely destroyed. In 1832 the renegade Zulu chief, Mzilikazi, escaping from the great Zulu chief Shaka, swept through the area, destroying the Tswana settlements in his path. In the mid 1830s the famous hunter William Cornwallis Harris passed through the area. David Livingstone visited the region several times in the 1840s and lived in the area between 1846 and 1847. Another famous hunter, Frederick Courtney Selous, passed through the region several times between 1875 and 1884, while following the Marico River in search of trophy elephants. The area also has a rich missionary history, with a chapel being built in what is now the south of the reserve in 1886. In 1899, during the second Anglo-Boer war, the battle of Derdepoort was fought very close to where Makanyane Safari Lodge stands today. This region is familiar to many South Africans through the humorous and incisive writings of the well known author, Herman Charles Bosman, who lived in the area in 1926 and who wrote many unforgettable stories revolving around the characters and places in what was to become the Madikwe Game Reserve.
Transcript
Wines subject to availability 1
The African Wild Dog (in the Tswana language, "Makanyane"), which has been successfully re-established in
Madikwe, is on the WWF Endangered Species List.
The Madikwe region is richly steeped in history. Famous (and infamous) figures such as David Livingstone, Cecil John
Rhodes and the Zulu chief Mzilikazi all left their mark in this corner of South Africa. But traces of humanity in the
area stretch far into the distant past. Middle Stone Age artifacts dating back 250 000 years have been found in
Madikwe and several Iron Age sites, dating from 1400 to 1700 AD have been discovered.
Artifacts from the Khoisan people have also been found lying in forgotten valleys and caves in the region.
In the early 19th century, a large Tswana village was thriving near the centre of what is now the reserve. During this
period, known as the Difaqane, a violent period of unrest in South Africa, civil wars raged across the Madikwe
region, almost destroying the Tswana culture in the area. The name Marico is derived from a Tswana word meaning
'drenched with blood' - a reference to a battle in 1823 where the Hurutshe town of Kaditshwene in the Marico River
valley, one of the largest towns in southern Africa at that time, was completely destroyed.
In 1832 the renegade Zulu chief, Mzilikazi, escaping from the great Zulu chief Shaka, swept through the area,
destroying the Tswana settlements in his path. In the mid 1830s the famous hunter William Cornwallis Harris passed
through the area. David Livingstone visited the region several times in the 1840s and lived in the area between 1846
and 1847. Another famous hunter, Frederick Courtney Selous, passed through the region several times between 1875
and 1884, while following the Marico River in search of trophy elephants. The area also has a rich missionary history,
with a chapel being built in what is now the south of the reserve in 1886.
In 1899, during the second Anglo-Boer war, the battle of Derdepoort was fought very close to where Makanyane
Safari Lodge stands today. This region is familiar to many South Africans through the humorous and incisive writings
of the well known author, Herman Charles Bosman, who lived in the area in 1926 and who wrote many
unforgettable stories revolving around the characters and places in what was to become the Madikwe Game Reserve.
“I drink it when I am happy, and when I am sad. Sometimes I drink it when I am alone. When I have company, I
consider it obligatory. Otherwise I never touch it – unless I am thirsty.” Madame Lilly Bollinger
Champagnes Dom Pérignon 1993
Region: Épernay, France
R1820
Dom Pérignon 2000
Region: Épernay, France
R3350
Moët et Chandon first produced super cuvée Dom Pérignon in 1936, and it is still consistently one of the finest
Champagnes produced. In a constant quest for the ultimate balance between pinot noir and chardonnay, the style
traces, vintage after vintage, a complex structure made up of aromas and sensations, silky smooth sensuality.
Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label NV
Region: Reims, France
R1125
Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin has been part of the LVMH stable since 1987. Their Yellow label is a classic non-vintage
blend based on pinot noir, made in a full-bodies and rich style. Nearly a third chardonnay gives it the elegance and
finesse needed for perfect balance.
Méthode Cap Classique Simonsig Kaapse Vonkel NV
Region: Stellenbosch
R185
Simonsig is best known for Kaapse Vonkel which was the first sparkling wine made in South Africa according to the
traditional French Champagne method. Kaapse Vonkel means “Cape Sparkle”.
Graham Beck Brut NV
Region: Robertson
R215
Traditional champagne blend of chardonnay and pinot noir. Second fermentation in the bottle ensures finely beaded bubbles, brioche aromas and creamy, generous flavours. A rich but dry Cap Classique, showing lovely finesse.
Steenberg 1682 Chardonnay MCC
Region: Constantia
R234
Chardonnay fermented in pièces champenois barrels remains on the secondary lees in the bottle for years before dègorgement, resulting in a deliciously vibrant and creamy sparkling wine. Complexity and a long, full-flavoured dry finish make this amongst the Cape's classiest.
Silverthorn The Green Man Blanc de Blancs 2007
Region: Robertson
R295
The image of one of the Karoo’s most prolific thorn trees inspired the name of Namibian-born John Loubser’s (day-job Steenberg cellarmaster) boutique winery. This all-chardonnay bubbly is named for a half-human, half-nature mythical figure representing the spirit of the forest and interdependence of all things. John recommends freshly shucked oysters from his homeland as the perfect accompaniment.
Ross Gower Pinot Noir MCC NV
Region: Elgin
R250
Winner of the Best Rosé MCC at the Wine Magazine Challenge. Salmon pink, bone-dry and zesty with elegant with hints of strawberries and cream cheese. Delightful.
Wines subject to availability 4
Sauvignon Blanc
Ataraxia Sauvignon Blanc 2011
Region: Hemel-en-Aarde Valley
R170
By the glass: R45
Kevin Grant made Hamilton Russell’s wines for many years before going solo and releasing his own label. This wine
has assertive gooseberry, green asparagus aromas. The pure fruit flavours are complemented by zesty acidity.
Klein Constantia Sauvignon Blanc 2011
Region: Constantia
R205
Historic Klein Constantia is well known for its full-flavoured expression of this variety, where vines enjoy fresh
breezes from both Atlantic and Indian oceans on either side of the narrow Cape peninsula. Their signature grape
yields aromas and flavours of green figs, white peach and grapefruit, with a dash of semillon adding dimension to
the long mineral finish.
Steenberg Sauvignon Blanc 2011
Region: Constantia
R170
A combination of Old and New World styles is evident in this wine, made from a Loire-sourced clone of sauvignon
blanc. This wine is fresh, flinty and full-bodied, with aromas of grass, capsicum and ripe fig. A long, firm lasting finish
reflects the distinctive Constantia Valley terroir.
Tokara Walker Bay Sauvignon Blanc 2011
Region: Walker Bay
R180
Stellenbosch Tokara released their first vintage under this label in 2005, six years after establishing the winery. This
sauvignon is from their ocean-cooled Walker Bay vineyards, resulting in a wine with intense fruit flavours, vibrant
acidity and flinty minerality. Delicious on its own or with food.
Iona Sauvignon Blanc 2011
Region: Elgin
R225
Iona’s stylish, vibrant rendition of this variety is a firm favourite among sauvignon drinkers: refreshing and complex
with capsicum and passionfruit tightly wound around trademark flinty Elgin minerality. The persistent lemon-pith
finish is broadened by a small portion of barrel-fermented semillon.
Chenin Blanc
Spice Route Chenin Blanc 2007
Region: Swartland
R140
Exotic, opulent rendition of this grape variety that grows so well in the Cape - in this case the warm Swartland where
the climate is perfectly suited to full-bodied, spicy styles. Ideally accompanied by spicy Asian food.
Cederberg Chenin Blanc 2009
Region: Cederberg
R170
A consistent Cape benchmark during the last decade. Made from older vines – always impressive! Recognised for its
overt grapefruit, melon & citrus flavours. Mouth-tingling crispness carries the long, fruit laden finish.
Beaumont Hope Marguerite Chenin Blanc 2009
Region: Botriver
R280
Restrained and classically flinty, with layers of vivid fruit resulting in a harmonious, elegant and judiciously oaked
chenin. Made from old, low-yielding bush vines, this is one of South Africa’s leading ‘serious’ chenins. Distinctive and
versatile, it will stand up to most spicy dishes.
Wines subject to availability 5
Chardonnay
Jordan Chardonnay 2009
Region: Stellenbosch
R195
By the glass: R55
Selected for its elegance, and subtle use of oak, this wine is always exceptionally well-made across vintages by
perfectionist, eco-conscious Stellenbosch growers, Gary and Kathy Jordan. Burgundian oak maturation ‘sur lie’
ensures creamy complexity and freshness in this classic expression of Burgundy’s white grape.
Cape Point Vineyards Chardonnay 2004
Region: Cape Point
R160
The only winery with plantings on the Cape peninsula which jut into the chilly southern ocean, where cool breezes
provide the vines with respite from the heat of summer. Judiciously oaked in Burgundy barrels, the wine exhibits a
complex array of citrus and apricot flavours, complemented by toastiness, minerality, and a crisp finish.
Paul Cluver Chardonnay 2009
Region: Elgin
R190
The cool-climate chardonnay from this family-owned winery bursts with flavours of citrus fruit, fresh apples and
marmalade. Toasty oak adds to the wine’s complexity & lends a seriousness & a wonderfully textured mouthfeel.
Restraint & fresh classic style.
Ataraxia Chardonnay 2008
Region: Hemel-en-Aarde Valley
R335
Laying our hands on the tiny volumes of this expressive, award-winning wine from ex-Hamilton Russell winemaker
Kevin Grant’s boutique cellar is challenging! A soil-derived gravelly minerality and racy acidity adds to the classic
length and complexity of this stylish, world class Chardonnay.
Oak Valley Chardonnay 2010
Region: Walker Bay
R250
This family-owned Elgin property consistently delivers excellent quality. Delicious citrus zestiness and a rich, creamy
texture contribute to the richness & persistence of flavour of this judiciously oaked wine - a classic expression of
Burgundy’s white grape grown in the Cape: tight and minerally with great intensity, complexity and length.
Iona Chardonnay 2009
Region: Elgin
R300
The cool growing conditions with the resultant minerality and wonderful natural acidity that they get in their grapes
make Chardonnay an ideal variety for Iona. Rich, creamy and nutty with a lemony acidity, strong mineral
undertones and a discreet use of French oak.
Hamilton Russell Chardonnay 2010
Region: Hemel-en-Aarde Valley
R530
This illustrious Burgundy-styled wine from cool, coastal Walker Bay exhibits a classic oaked expression of Burgundy's
white grape grown in the Cape: tight and minerally with great intensity, complexity and length.
Wines subject to availability 6
Unwooded Chardonnay
Bouchard Finlayson Chardonnay Sans Barrique 2006
Region: Walker Bay
R170
This stylish wine from cool, coastal Walker Bay shows what the chardonnay grape, uncloaked in wood, really tastes
of: lemons & apples shot through with lively minerality. The winery was established as a venture between 10th
generation Burgundian négotiant Paul Bouchard, & former Hamilton-Russell winemaker Peter Finlayson.
Constantia Uitsig Unwooded Chardonnay 2006
Region: Constantia
R150
Kept fresh by a modern stelvin screwcap closure, this bottle-aged Constantia Valley chardonnay displays the stone
fruit aromas and citrus flavours of this variety, usually masked by oaking. Months of lees contact adds complexity. A
very versatile food partner.
White Blends
Klein Constantia Mme Marlbrook 2007
Region: Constantia
R220
A blend of exotic floral notes and green herbal aromas dominated this fresh and finely textured blend of semillon
and sauvignon, with a splash of muscat. The palate bursts with flavours of passion fruit, white peach and ginger
spice, with well-integrated oak lending structure and fullness to the freshly cleansing finish.
Joostenberg Fairhead 2008
Region: Paarl
R160
Deliciously opulent blend of chenin, viognier and chardonnay, with abundant dried apricot, baked apple and citrus
aromas and flavours. Clever oaking adds structure and texture to this must-try rich and spicy wine.
Mullineux White 2009
Region: Swartland
R320
Superb debut” (claims Robert Parker) from the family-owned Swartland winery, where Chris and Andrea Mullineux
blend low-yielding chenin with equal portions of Rhône varieties grenache blanc, clairette and viognier. Adding
“Wonderful definition”, before remarking on the freshly cut lime, grapefruit and touch of passion fruit. Fermentation
in older barrels adds breadth and texture to this delicious wine.
Painted Wolf Lekanyane 2009
Region: Paarl
R150
A rich, elegant white ‘Cape blend' of chenin, viognier and verdelho, fermented in barrel, giving richness and breadth
to the juicy pineapple and apricot flavours. Impressive minerality and savoury acidity carry the blend to a long,
flavoursome conclusion.
Semillon
Nitida Semillon 2010
Region: Durbanville
R194
Nurtured in the cool Durbanville hills just north of Cape Town, this classic semillon exhibits ripe peach aromas,
threaded through by lively acidity and zesty citrus and fresh apple flavours
Wines subject to availability 7
Riesling
Paul Cluver Close Encounter Riesling 2010
Region: Elgin
R220
Named for the estate manager who narrowly escaped being hit by a train that runs through the Cluver estate. This
riesling is made in a Spätlese style – higher residual sugar, lower alcohol. Delicately fragrant with luscious lime
flavours and creamy mouthfeel.
Klein Constantia Riesling 2009
Region: Constantia
R205
This fine aromatic variety is grown on the cool slopes of the Constantia Valley, and rendered by Riesling-mad Adam
Mason in a dry but flavourful style. Floral spicy aromas and lime flavours, which are carried along by firm natural
acidity.
Viognier
Eagle’s Nest Viognier 2009
Region: Constantia
R245
This new Constantia property has taken the lead in producing an impressive Condrieu style. Rich flavours of apricot,
lime, and a stony minerality drive this well balanced wine to a full, flavoursome conclusion.
Rosé
Kanonkop Pinotage Rosé 2010
Region: Stellenbosch
R90
A dry but juicy rosé, bled from pinotage grapes which manages to the taste buds tingling with fresh red berry fruit
compôte flavours. Staying with the Kanonkop philosophy, this is a savoury, full-bodied and versatile food wine.
Pinot Noir
Newton Johnson Pinot Noir 2009
Region: Hemel-en-Aarde
R375
Much in demand, this fine Pinot grown in the cool Hemel-en-Aarde (Heaven & Earth) valley. Made in a voluptuous,
juicy style with pure cherry and cranberry flavours and underlying earthiness, it is ideal accompaniment to duck, and
has sufficient structure to accompany lighter red meat dishes.
Glen Carlou Pinot Noir 2010
Region: Paarl
R395
The Swiss Hess Group have invested in renewal of vineyards and cellar since purchasing this Paarl property, which is
well-reflected in their wines. This is an elegantly-styled pinot, offering fresh, juicy, brambly fruit, underpinned by the
structure from a year’s maturation in French oak. Delicious with duck and lighter meats.
Wines subject to availability 8
Pinotage
Middelvlei Pinotage 2010
Region: Stellenbosch
R170
By the glass: R45
Maturation for 14 months in small French oak barrels lends seriousness and structure to this Stellenbosch pinotage,
with its sweet raspberry aromas and dark fruit flavours. A touch of American oak adds spiciness to the deliciously rich
finish.
Kanonkop Pinotage 2009
Region: Stellenbosch
R420
Kanonkop managed to produce concentrated wines during this ideal vintage. Made from old bushvines and matured
in French oak, this full – bodied wine is best enjoyed with meat and game dishes.
Nitida Pinotage 2007
Region: Durbanville
R120
A lightly-oaked pinotage with oodles of character: enticingly lush flavours of sweet, juicy maraschino cherry and
raspberry fill the structured framework imparted by the ripe grape tannins and year’s maturation in French oak.
Enjoy with game and spicy meat dishes.
Hartenberg Pinotage 2006
Region: Stellenbosch
R170
A youthful, vibrantly-coloured wine from this Stellenbosch property, with a reputation for quality. This, their first
bottling of local variety, Pinotage, has been well-received for its ripe berry, spice and sweet vanilla aromas, lush
mouth feel, and good value.
Merlot
Steenberg Merlot 2008
Region: Constantia
R200
This Constantia winery makes a delicious, fruit-packed but classic style of wine from this fashionable red variety.
Aromas of violets and plums (and a hint of minty eucalyptus) lead to a ripe berry-flavoured mouthful. Judicious use
of oak ensures a good balance of subtle oak flavours, soft tannins and fruit.
Overgaauw Merlot 2004
Region: Stellenbosch
R180
A fleshy, savoury merlot, with rich red berry fruit flavours, which is ready to enjoy now. This sleek wine from
century-old Overgaauw is matured in French barrels, resulting in a fine, ripe tannin structure which carries the fruit
graciously through to the finish.
Meerlust Merlot 2006
Region: Stellenbosch
R440
In keeping with the classicism of this property, the Merlot shows finesse and elegance. Blended with 10% Cabernet
Sauvignon and barrique matured for 24 months, this ripe, concentrated wine is full-bodied, smoothly textured and
satisfyingly complex.
Ridgeback Merlot 2006
Region: Paarl
R170
Beguiling aromas of violets, plums, mocha and oak spice promise (and deliver) a refined and complex wine with a
full, textured mouthfeel and deliciously savoury finish.
Wines subject to availability 9
Shiraz
Graham Beck Coastal Shiraz 2005
Region: Franschhoek
R175
This Franschhoek grown shiraz was matured in both American and French oak, providing a structural backdrop for
the rich mulberry flavours. Best enjoyed with hearty meat dishes.
Rudera Syrah 2003
Region: Stellenbosch
R170
This is the 3rd vintage of individualist winemaker Teddy Hall’s syrah we’ve listed. His hallmark ripe, dense dark
berry fruit aromas and flavours, and soft tannins make this wine deliciously approachable now.
Vondeling Baldrick Shiraz 2010
Region: Paarl
R110
This shiraz with a dollop of mourvèdre and viognier was created for wine enthusiasts of the London gastro pub
movement, inspired by Baldrick of the Black Adder TV series - the perfect ambassador for this smooth, fruity Shiraz!
Cabernet – Merlot
Le Riche Cabernet Sauvignon - Merlot 2003
Region: Stellenbosch
R270
Cabernet specialist Etienne le Riche was Rustenberg’s winemaker for 20 years before going solo in 1997. Elegance
and balance are his trademarks. Earthy, forest floor tones on the nose. Subtle red berry flavours, ample fruitiness with
firm tannins and good structure. A classic yet accessible blend.
Vergelegen Mill Race 2008
Region: Stellenbosch
R185
By the Glass: R46
A rather classy house wine, Mill Race is a blend of cabernets sauvignon and franc, and merlot, matured in French
oak. It packs a punch with its ripe fruit and weighty mouth feel.
Wines subject to availability 10
Cabernet Sauvignon
Cederberg Cabernet Sauvignon 2006
Region: Cederberg
R180
The dry climate and high altitude Cederberg vineyards are capable of producing excellent, healthy grapes – the mark
of this beautifully balanced and richly flavoured, deliciously drinkable and fine wine.
Stark-Condé Cabernet Sauvignon 2007
Region: Stellenbosch
R225
A most sumptuous, powerfully built blackcurrant flavoured, Californian-styled cabernet from talented American
designer José Condé’s boutique winery on the slopes of the Jonkershoek mountains. Enjoy!
Flagstone The Music Room Cabernet Sauvignon 2004
Region: Somerset West
R375
One of the Cape’s most ambitious and quirkiest winemakers, Australian-trained Bruce Jack believes that texture and
balance are all important in a wine - amply demonstrated in this smooth, well-balanced and seamlessly integrated
example.
Vergelegen Cabernet Sauvignon 2005
Region: Stellenbosch
R310
Elegance is the hallmark of this wine, made by the enfant terrible of South African wine, talented André van
Rensburg. The ultra-careful handling of the grapes in both vineyard and cellar make possible a wine of such fine
balance and texture. A 15% Merlot component helps to soften this classic Médoc variety.
Diemersfontein Carpe Diem Cabernet Sauvignon 2008
Region: Wellington
R182
A warm region, red wine only Diemersfontein consistently offers ripe, black – fruited, mocha-laced wines with sweet
spice and clove undertones. The opulently rich flavours and unabashedly new-world style make a good partner for
any meat or game dish.
Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon 2008
Region: Stellenbosch
R220
By the glass: R55
Garry & Kathy Jordan never fail to coax abundant flavours of blackberry and cassis from these grapes grown on their
cool Stellenbosch hillside vineyards. This wine shows all the hallmarks of quality: structure, depth, balance and
complexity. It was matured for 20 months in French oak barrels.
Leopard’s Leap Cabernet Sauvignon 2006
Region: Franschhoek
R80
Fruity, accessible style with rich blueberry and plum flavours and a dash of cassis –a typical example of this ever-
popular variety, it's the perfect companion for a hearty meat dish.
Thelema The Mint Cabernet Sauvignon 2008
Region: Stellenbosch
R400
New-wave cabernet leaders in the 90s, Thelema Mountain Vineyards produce modern-styled, accessible red wines.
Compact structure and excellent depth of fruit make for satisfying drinking. The distinctive fresh mint character
(hence the name) complements roasted meats.
Wines subject to availability 11
Red Blends Solms -Delta Hiervandaan 2006
Region: Franschhoek
R185
A southern Rhône styled blend of syrah, mourvèdre, grenache, carignan and viognier from unconventional,
internationally recognised neuroscientist Mark Solms. Welcomingly warm and spicy, with a supple texture and
intense red fruit flavours. A portion of the Shiraz is desiccated on the vine according to an ancient method, to
intensify the colour and add additional flavour components.
Boekenhoutskloof The Chocolate Block 2006 Region: Franschhoek
R345
Sought-after, sleek blend of (mostly) shiraz and grenache with a beguiling rich, spiciness after the traditional reds of
the Southern Rhône. Dense, and vibrantly youthful, enjoy the voluptuous mouthfeel, and long, complex finish.
Laibach Ladybird 2007
Region: Franschhoek
R165
You couldn’t ask for a more vibrancy to fulfill the expectations of a wine made from organically grown grapes. A
blend of merlot and cabernet, its concentrated, pure dark red berry fruit is supported by fine, smooth tannins.
Catherine Marshall Syrah-Mourvèdre 2008
Region: Paarl
R235
These Rhône varieties are very much at home in the Cape, blended here by the Cape’s pioneering garagiste
winemaker, Cathy Marshall. Elegant and mouthwateringly fresh, with supple fruit flavours underpinned by soft, spicy
oak.
Meerlust Rubicon 2006
Region: Stellenbosch
R520
One of first Cape Bordeaux-styled blends from this internationally renowned estate. The Rubicon is consistently
restrained and quietly understated in style, rewarding time in bottle.
Grangehurst Nikela 2001
Region: Stellenbosch
R250
‘Nikela’- meaning “to offer dedication, respect or a tribute to one’s ancestors”- is the name chosen by respected
winemaker Jeremy Walker for this Cape blend dedicated to his parents. Rich, complex and austere, it is best served
with hearty red meat dishes.
The Goose Expression 2007
Region: Stellenbosch
R495
Retief Goosen is the latest pro to join a select group of vigneron golfers producing wines under their own labels in
the Cape. Unusually, his vineyards are some of the most easterly, situated high in the apple producing Langkloof.
Expression is a blend of cabernet and shiraz, cossetted by tight oak tannins.
Ernie Els Signature Red 2007
Region: Stellenbosch
R1095
Els’ golfing nickname The Big Easy might describe the more approachable red of the same name in his stable of
wines. The Signature is its antithesis: an ambitious, highly polished, larger-than-life Bordeaux-style red blend. Enjoy its
fruit and oak generosity with more robust dishes.
Wines subject to availability 12
Something Special List – older wines and CWG wines
Cape Winemakers Guild - Auction Wines
The Cape Winemakers Guild (CWG) was established in 1982 by eight independent winemakers who shared a vision
of creating premium South African wines that would receive benchmark recognition both locally and abroad. Today,
the 37 members of the Cape Winemakers Guild share that same vision and, through the exchange of knowledge and
the evaluation of top wines from around the world, Guild members have established themselves as leaders in the art
of winemaking. Wines sold at the Nedbank CWG Auction are exclusive. They are produced by the members in small
quantities, especially for the Auction.
Cordoba Cape Winemaker’s Guild Cabernet Franc – Merlot 1999
Region: Stellenbosch
R550
Cordoba winemaker Chris Keet excels with sought-after classic cabernet franc merlot blend called Crescendo (below),
of which this Winemaker’s Guild Auction bottling is an even more exceptional version. Intense yet restrained wine,
exhibiting whiffs of cedarwood and blackcurrant. Savoury acidity and a firm structure lead to a lengthy dry finish.
Cordoba Crescendo 2000
Region: Stellenbosch
R580
Production at top property Cordoba ceased with the 2006 vintage, a great loss to the wine industry. Perched high
on the slopes of the Helderberg Mountain, the site is blessed with a rich soils, clean air, cooling sea breezes,
tempered sunlight and adequate rain. Chris Keet managed to make this outstanding, classic St-Emilion style from
cabernet franc-merlot blend, demand always far outstripping supply.
Grangehurst Cabernet – Merlot 2000
Region: Stellenbosch
R180
The warm 2000 vintage yielded ripe fruit and firm tannins, which are now beginning to soften, exposing the rich
blackcurrant and plum fruit of this Bordeaux – styled wine. An 80:20 blend cabernet and merlot, this wine was made
in limited volumes in Grangehurst’s specialist red wine cellar in Stellenbosch.
Hartenberg Cape Winemaker’s Guild Gravel Hill Shiraz 2000
Region: Stellenbosch
R520
Gravel Hill is a single vineyard, comprising pure red gravel stone. The vines consistently provide an intense Rhône-
style shiraz: dark crimson in colour with aromas of cracked pepper, violets wild herbs, and distinct earthiness. A
‘complete’ and complex wine, this auction bottling took WINE mag’s top 2000 vintage Shiraz title.
High Constantia Cabernet Franc 2001
Region: Constantia
R380
Small volumes of funky cabernet franc are handcrafted in the artisanal cellar of this little corner of Cape Town’s
Constantia Valley. Dark, rich plum colour with a characteristic lifted aromatics of spice and berries, complemented
by subtle use of French Oak.
Kanonkop Cabernet Sauvignon 1991
Region: Stellenbosch
R730
A legendary vintage, especially for top producer, Kanonkop. This rare and powerful wine is produced from low-
yielding 25 year-old vines. It is matured for 18 - 24 months in small French oak barrels, developing the complexity
derived from the nutty, blackberry cabernet sauvignon flavours. Treat yourself!
Kanonkop Paul Sauer 2000
Region: Stellenbosch
R800
The flagship blend of one of the Cape’s most prestigious wineries. Made traditionally in open-top fermenter (kuipe)
which extracts maximum fruit flavours from both cabernets franc and sauvignon, and merlot. Sells out soon after
release every vintage. Savour this quintessential Cape red.
Wines subject to availability 13
Something special cont.
L’Avenir Cape Winemakers Guild Pinotage 2002
Region: Stellenbosch
R450
L’Avenir’s signature grape produces intensely perfumed wine, exhibiting rich, ripe spicy fruit, dark juiciness and
luscious, persistent finish. This auction bottling wine was matured in French oak, and is best enjoyed with meat and
game dishes.
Meerlust Merlot 1998
Region: Stellenbosch
R680
Meerlust’s merlots exhibit classic finesse and elegance, with complexity, concentration and smoothly texture. Black &
red fruits combine with rich spiciness & cedarwood perfume, and dominate the plush ‘98 vintage, which is drinking
superbly now.
Thelema Cabernet Sauvignon 2000
Region: Stellenbosch
R395
Rated 5 stars in Decanter, this vintage is a keeper. Winemaker Gyles Webb worked at Heitz in California before
establishing this winery in the late 80s. His emphasis on ripe tannins, supple textures and complex fruit make this a
consistent and distinctive wine. Appealing cedarwood, plum and minty aromas, with a firm fruit-filled palate.
Vergelegen Cabernet Sauvignon 2000
Region: Stellenbosch
R450
This classic, tightly-knit cabernet from top-performing Vergelegen is starting to show its charms after years of
languishing in bottle. Enjoy this elegant cabernet with red meats and hearty stews.
Vergelegen Flagship Red 2000
Region: Stellenbosch
R535
Only the cool, high-altitude vineyards are used for the production of the Vergelegen flagship red blend. A
concentrated but not over-extracted wine, with aromas of blackberries, mocha and pencil shavings, and ripeness and
beautiful fruit wood integration on the palate. Matured in French oak.
Dessert Wines
Jordan Millefera Noble Late Harvest 2010
Region: Stellenbosch
R200
By the glass: R50
Botrytised riesling gives this dessert wine its brilliant gold colour. Lusciously rich flavours of spices and dried apricot
are balanced by racy acidity, lifting the pithy lime flavours through to a clean finish.
Klein Constantia Vin de Constance 1998 & 2006
Region: Constantia
R650
The recreation of the legendary 18th century sweet wine of Constantia, this well deserves the many accolades it
receives. Made from Muscat de Frontignan, which is left to raisin on the vines, it is deep gold in colour with intense
aromas of dried apricot, tangerine, and muscat. Luscious, concentrated, sweet fruit flavours on the palate are
balanced by fine acidity, and followed by an exceptionally long, flavourful finish.
Wines subject to availability 14
Wines By The Glass
Ataraxia Sauvignon Blanc 2011 R45 per glass
Jordan Chardonnay 2009 R55 per glass
Middelvlei Pinotage 2010 R45 per glass
Vergelegen Mill Race 2008 R46 per glass
Jordan Mellifera Noble Late Harvest 2010 R50 per glass
Half Bottles
Waterford Sauvignon Blanc (500ml) 2010
Region: Stellenbosch
R100
A freshly zippy sauvignon from cool-climate vines grown on the high-altitude Elgin plateau. Juicy quince &
gooseberry flavours balance the steely mineral core, providing a fresh, bracing finish. Lovely food wine.
Waterford Cabernet Sauvignon (375ml) 2007
Region: Stellenbosch
R115
Rich and elegant in both style and packaging, this wine is made by accomplished winemaker, Kevin Arnold at this
Provençal-style Stellenbosch winery. His cabernet is densely packed with cassis and berry fruit, ripe and spicy tannins,
