
Mont Rochelle Winemaker Darran Stone |
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| Mont Rochelle to host exciting Barrel Tasting 101 |
| 14 June 2012 by Mont Rochelle |
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| Mont Rochelle Hotel and Mountain Vineyards in Franschhoek will be
hosting an exciting Barrel Tasting on Friday 15 June. Hosted by Mont
Rochelle's winemaker Darran Stone, and forming part of the quarterly
series of Tasting 101 events, the evening will provide an in-depth
experiential wine journey with gourmet fare to match.
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A special stay-over package at Mont Rochelle’s luxury boutique hotel on the property is available to those looking for the ideal kick-start to a weekend in the winelands. At R600 per person per night, including a full English breakfast and attendance at the Barrel Tasting, this is simply a must-do, offering a night of luxury to round off a perfect evening.
Winemaker Darran Stone, armed with wine thief in hand, will lead a tasting of a selection of wines straight from the barrel. These will include Mont Rochelle’s Barrel Fermented Chardonnay 2012, Sauvignon Blanc 2012, Merlot 2010 and Cabernet Sauvignon 2010, offering an intriguing look at the influence of new, versus third fill French oak barrels on the Syrah 2010. Joslin Hawker, the Country Kitchen’s Head Chef, will dish up delectable canapé platters, paired specifically with each barrel, highlighting the specific characteristics of each wine with his culinary creations. The event will be presented from 18h00 to 20h00 in Mont Rochelle’s cellar door restaurant, the Country Kitchen, at a cost of R150 per person, including the tasting and canapé’s.
Wine Tasting notes:
The Mont Rochelle Barrel Fermented Chardonnay 2012 exudes hints of peach and apricot on the nose, balanced by a soft vanilla and creamy palate. Fresh, young acidity enhances the citrus flavour profile. It is particularly well matched with the Hot Smoked Franschhoek Trout with creamy beetroot, a favourite dish on the menu of the Country Kitchen.
The deliciously crisp Sauvignon Blanc 2012 has a fresh nose of green apple and breakfast melon, supported by a clean acidity that gives clarity to the palate, with distinct flavours of cape gooseberry rounded off with a touch of oak. It’s best enjoyed over a dinner of Tomato Mozzarella Calzone.
The smooth blackberry flavours of the Merlot 2010 accompany a finely structured palate showing hints of mint and cigar box, is a match made in heaven with Venison and Butterbean Stew with dried fruit dumplings.
The elegant oaking of the Cabernet Sauvignon 2010 is well balanced with its complex fruit flavours and aromas of mulberry and cassis, complemented by a finely structured palate and clean acidity. A glass of this superb food wine is simply delicious with a rich red meat dish, such as Braised Lamb Risotto with pesto crumbs.
Crafted in the traditional winemaking style for which this vineyard is renowned, the Syrah 2010 – New Oak shows intense vanilla and oak flavours dominating the nose, with pencil-shavings and cloves showing on the palate. Sip a glass (or two) with a traditionally prepared, spicy Roti and Curry with sambals, for ultimate enjoyment.
The fruity Syrah 2010 – 3rd Fill reveals lively red fruit aromas on the nose and a spicy palate, with only a slight hint of cloves. Paired with a mouth-watering dish of Biltong Crusted Beef Medallions, with mushrooms, barley and tarragon sauce, it really comes into its own.
Advance booking for the Tasting 101 (Barrel Tasting) on Friday 15 June, is essential. Reservations Tel 021 876 2770, or email info@montrochelle.co.za. |
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