“Wine sets the tone of an event; its nature can be anything from frivolous to serious. For many, the Uitkyk Carlonet represents a pinnacle of achievement and as such, has been handed down from each generation of wine lovers to the next,” says Uitkyk Estate winemaker Estelle Lourens on the eve of the release of the Carlonet 2011.
“When it is served, it is most often the dramatic centrepiece of a meal or an intimate gathering of friends. More than a mere stalwart that ages well, Uitkyk Carlonet has become entrenched in wine lore.”
Reflecting this ascent, the wine’s name hails from one of the farm’s pioneering founders. Uitkyk was established in 1712 when land was granted to settler Jan Oberholzer. Vines were however first planted here more than two centuries later, in 1929, by the owner at the time, a Prussian émigré, Hans von Carlowitz. He recognised the winemaking possibilities inherent in the high slopes of the farm with their well-drained soils. So, with the help of his son, Georg, he developed the vineyards.
Situated on the south-western slopes of the Simonsberg Mountain, Uitkyk has a view across the Cape Flats to Table Mountain in the distance. Its elevated position is the reason for its name too, which means “look out”. It provides a splendid setting for the striking manor house, a neo-classical masterpiece completed in 1788 that is one of the only three 18th century, double story, flat roofed, Georgian style houses left in the country.
During the restoration of the house, two beautiful murals were discovered on a wall in the entrance hall, buried under 15 layers of paint. Their meticulous uncovering was preceded by painstaking research; samples of paint fragments taken from the murals were sent to Europe for analysis. Where possible, similar natural pigments were used in their restoration and the two delicate panels portray the seasons of summer and spring. Much of the colourful bird, plant and insect life so meticulously depicted, can be found on Uitkyk today.
In March 2011 Uitkyk became a Biodiversity & Wine Initiative (BWI) Champion. More than half of the 600ha property falls within the Greater Simonsberg Conservancy and is set aside for conservation and provides natural corridors for fauna species to move freely and thrive. It has only 150ha under vine.
This care for the environment is reflected in its wines, which have been in the care of Estelle Lourens since October 2000. After graduating with a degree in viniculture and viticulture from the University of Stellenbosch, she explored the wine regions of Australia, Tasmania, New Zealand and America.
Estelle returned to South Africa in 1997, working as assistant-winemaker at Neethlingshof and then at Stellenzicht before joining Uitkyk.
Under her leadership, the estate’s wines have won numerous awards in local and international shows. She has admirably borne the responsibility of the Carlonet tradition too, indicative in the latest release.
Made from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon grapes, the Uitkyk Carlonet 2011 is dark ruby in colour. Its aromas are reminiscent of dried fruit, especially prunes, berries and spices, with shades of vanilla oak that cascade onto the palate where the wine shows silky chocolate in its fine, balanced and lingering poise.
“This wine’s a perfect partner for steaks, rich oxtail casseroles and pastas,” says Estelle.
In addition to the Carlonet, Uitkyk is also famous for its Shiraz, Pinotage, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay and Chenin Blanc wines; the 10 Year Old Uitkyk Grand Reserve Estate Brandy, which is distilled and matured on the historic estate; and, Glass Memoires, the Uitkyk MCC that pays tribute to momentous occasions.
Uitkyk is situated on the R44 between Stellenbosch and Paarl. Wine Tasting and sales are open from Monday to Friday 09h00 to 17h00, Saturdays, Sundays and Public Holidays 10h00 to 16h00. It is closed on Christmas day and Good Friday. Picnics are available from Mondays to Sundays from 10h00 to 17h00. Bookings are advisable.