“Our Vera
Cruz range, which also features an acclaimed Shiraz, offers an eloquent taste
of terroir, true varietal integrity and vintage excellence to the serious wine
lover. It exemplifies the best that Delheim can deliver and our maiden
Pinotage, which stems from a truly unique vineyard site, is a natural
consequence of an exceptional vintage,” shares winemaker and terroir-enthusiast
Reg Holder, who spends more time in the vineyards than in the cellar, even
during peak harvest season.
The Vera Cruz
range was named after Delheim’s dignified matriarch, Vera Sperling and the
Pinotage 2012 derives from a single vineyard, the “Protea” block, on the Vera
Cruz property which Delheim’s patriarch, Spatz Sperling acquired in 1975 to
compete with the country’s ‘super red wine’ echelon. This prime land on
Klapmutskop, lies approximately three kilometers from Delheim, and forms part
of one of the Cape’s top red wine pockets, the Muldersvlei bowl.
“The terroir
aspects including the micro climate and soil quality of this specific Pinotage
block, add an inimitable sense of place and unique taste character to our
grapes and most certainly improved our odds to reap the full potential of SA’s
unique homegrown varietal. The fact that we have done so well with our maiden
vintage at this closely contested competition confirms this,” adds
viticulturist Etienne Terblanche.
Reg
and Etienne meticulously hand selects the premium bunches in the vineyards –
focusing on the grapes’ even ripeness, concentration and expression – to ensure
that only the finest quality is captured in each bottle.
The
award-winning Delheim Vera Cruz Pinotage 2012 with its deep ruby red hue,
exudes notes of black cherry, plum and mulberry backed by dark chocolate and
floral nuances. Mid palate
fruit shows delicious density and persistence in a framework of fine,
well-integrated tannins and satisfies with a long ripe finish. This newcomer spent 16 months in oak barrels of which 45%
were
new.
The Delheim
Vera Cruz Pinotage 2012 pairs exceptionally well with venison, succulent rump
steak and rich fish dishes. It is the perfect partner to take along to any
festive Christmas feast, regardless whether it lands up under the tree or is
enjoyed with the roast.
Due to the
high quality level required, Delheim’s Vera Cruz wines are exclusive to
exceptional vintages only; therefore expectations are also high for the latest
vintage Shiraz 2012 which has now been released after a three year
absence.
The grapes
stem from a 22 year old single bush vine vineyard, Skooltjiebosstok, which
thrives in fertile Oakleaf soil in a low-lying site which imparts a richness
and structure to the tiny, concentrated grapes. The superior quality of the
wine can be attributed to meticulous care in the vineyards. During the
harvesting period, selected pockets of vines were handpicked at several
intervals and the wine spent 17 months in French Oak of which 40% were new barrels.
The
Delheim Vera Cruz Shiraz 2012 has earned its place in the estate’s flagship
range as a full-bodied, concentrated red with firm tannins that provide enough
structure to promise excellent ageing potential. Its mouth filling dark plum
and perfumed berry aromas are given further complexity with hints of spice and
violets.
This makes it
the perfect accompaniment to venison, beef, strong cheddar and spicy cuisine.
Both these
limited release Delheim Vera Cruz wines retail at R310 per bottle at the cellar
and boutique wine stores. Online orders can be placed at www.delheim.com.
For
more information contact Delheim Estate at Tel: 021 888 4600 or send an
email to info@delheim.com.