La Serena, meaning serenity or being serene, calm or tranquil, is the brainchild of the innovative Stellenbosch Hills team, under the direction of cellar master PG Slabbert. Crafted from one of South Africa’s rarest grape varieties, Muscat de Hambourg, La Serena pays tribute to the rich history and legacy of Stellenbosch Hills.
To ensure the integrity of the fruit, all grapes were handpicked in 8 kg boxes during the early morning hours. Grapes were fermented on the skins in 300 litre open top barriques for seven days after which the juice was fortified with a seven year old potstill brandy at 12ºB.
“Usually used as a title of honour or respect, La Serena pays tribute to the history of our cellar, the grapes we grow, the people who work the land, and the innovative spirit among our members,” says PG.
“Over the last seven decades we have produced many award winning vintages sourced from grapes grown in some of the Stellenbosch region’s most exclusive vineyards, and we continue to do so today.”
Only 1 400 bottles of this limited released fortified sweet aperitif were hand crafted making it the perfect gift or collector’s item. The La Serena has bright pomegranate hues, with an abundance of rich nougat and nut flavours, complemented by whiffs of rose petals.
Available exclusively from the cellar, the La Serena aperitif sells for R350 a bottle. Serve cold on crushed ice, as a cocktail or with dessert or a cheese platter.
“The La Serena is a divine fortified aperitif,” says PG. “Take seven decades of experience and exclusive vineyards and multiply that with a seven year old potstill brandy together with the skilful resources of an innovative winemaking team and you will get pretty close to perfection,” PG concluded.
For more information, visit www.stellenbosch-hills.co.za.