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Groot Constantia Gouverneurs Reserve Chardonnay
Kevin's comments: Fermented and matured in 300 litres new French oak barrels for 6 months. This is a complex wine with a long lingering aftertaste.
Chateau Tasting Notes
Groot Constantia Gouverneurs Reserve Chardonnay
GROOT CONSTANTIA, SOUTH AFRICA
The heritage of Groot Constantia would be incomplete without regarding its setting. As important as the product of the grape is the beauty and significance of the architecture. The priceless Manor House and the buildings grouped around it are unequalled examples of Cape Dutch architecture both in majesty and simplicity. The collection of artefacts, including furniture and pieces of art, reflects the rich cultural tradition of the Cape.
Today the estate is owned by the Groot Constantia Trust which is committed to building upon the foundations of this South Africa's oldest and best known estate. It is one of South Africa's most visited tourist attractions.
The story of Groot Constantia goes back to 1685 when Simon van der Stel, later governor of the cape, was granted land for a farm on the Eastern side of Table Mountain which he named Constantia. After several changes of ownership, it was sold to the Cloete family in 1778 and held by them for 5 generations until 1885. They were forced to sell owing to the vine disease phylloxera which ravaged the vineyards and it then became the property of the Cape government.
The total estate covers 165 hectares of which 87 hectares are currently planted, at a height of 60-280 metres above sea level. The type of climate is generally cool resulting in complex and balanced wines.
Their winemaker, Boela Gerber, was recently awarded the Trophy for Diners Club Young Winemaker of the Year.
GOUVERNEURS RESERVE CHARDONNAY
Grapes: 100% Estate grown Chardonnay.
Soil: Cartef, Longlands and Hutton.
Vinification: The grapes were picked in the middle of March when fully mature. 70% of the wine was fermented and matured in 225L new French oak barrels for 10 months, the remainder in 2nd fill barrels. Malolactic fermentation took place in the barrels.
Taste: A complex, full bodied wine with typical citrus and a hint of butterscotch flavour. The lingering aftertaste of the wine is complemented by the toastiness of the new wood. A lingering finish of honey and pineapple flavours. At its best 2 years from vintage.
Serve: Serve chilled to accompany Salmon with sorrel cream sauce or crispy roast duckling with orange sauce.
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