2016 has been a golden year for wine at Lourensford Estate in Somerset West, with the Limited Release Chardonnay 2015 and Limited Release White Blend 2012 the estate’s big winners at both local and international wine competitions.
The Limited Release Chardonnay 2015 was one of only 3 SA wines to receive a Grand Gold Medal at Concours Mondial de Bruxelles – only 80 out of 8 750 wines from 50 countries achieved this honour. The Chardonnay was named Best SA White Wine of the Show at the Mundus Vini, Germany. More Gold followed at the International Wine and Spirit Competition, London. It was also ranked one of the Top 100 SA Wines in 2016.
The Limited Release White Blend 2012 harvested Double Gold at the Michelangelo International Wine Awards, Silver in the Museum Class at the Old Mutual Trophy Wine Show and was the Top White Blend (Stellenbosch District) at the SA Terroir Wine Awards. The wine also scored 94 points in the Tim Atkin SA Report 2016.
Another top performer is the Limited Release Viognier 2015, receiving a 4 ½ star rating from the John Platter Wine Guide, a Silver Outstanding at the International Wine and Spirit Competition and named the Top Viognier (Stellenbosch District) at the SA Terroir Wine Awards.
Lovers of bubbles should taste the Lourensford MCC Brut Blanc 2011 awarded Gold at Vitis Vinifera, while the Limited Release Merlot 2013 was ranked among the Top 100 SA Wines and the Lourensford Sauvignon Blanc 2016 got Double Gold at Vitis Vinifera.
Lourensford Cellarmaster, Hannes Nel says it is a very exciting time to be in charge of production at the estate, with the wines picking up top local and international awards. However, the unique and multifaceted terroir of Lourensford Estate meant it has taken 15 years of experimenting with canopy management and other vineyard practices to get the best balance and harmony in the vineyards.
“The cool conditions and influence of the Atlantic Ocean breezes contribute to the low pH and natural high acidity in our wines, ensuring they are complex and layered so can last in bottle,” says Nel. “The Limited Release White blend 2012 and Lourensford MCC Brut Blanc 2011 are great examples.”
Owned by renowned businessman Christo Wiese, Lourensford Estate has about 100 hectares of vines. Venues and activities include the Millhouse Kitchen Restaurant, a coffee roastery and art gallery. Find out more on the website, Facebook, Twitter (@lourensford) and Instagram (@lourensford).
