Distinctly known for their outstanding Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blancs. Bouchard Finlayson has not only set a high standard for the region from which it hails, but for the entire wine industry. The tutored wine tastings will be held at various restaurants and destinations across Cape Town and the Cape winelands.
Stepping into Bouchon Bistro in Cape Town, the nip from the cool Cape Town air is quickly replaced with sights and smells that are enchanting to the senses. Warm, inviting and informative sets the tone for the evening to be shared with Peter Finlayson.
The wines are presented in four flights of three wines each. Each flight was deliciously paired with a dish that complimented the wines. From an exquisite wild mushroom and gnocchi dish drizzled with truffle oil and sprinkled with parmesan to perfectly cooked steak with a scrumptious Béarnaise sauce. Attention to detail and commitment to each aspect was clearly evident.
The first flight, Blanc de Mer, a Riesling-dominant white blend. The name meaning “white of the sea” and appropriately so, not only because of the vines’ origin from the coastal region, but as with the sea, these wines have the capacity to catch you off guard and reveal itself to be as much and even more than expected. This was true with the 2003 Blanc de Mer. Honeyed and smooth due to it’s age, but with elegant and well-balanced complexity between aroma, flavour and subtle acidity.
The second flight consisted of Chardonnay from the Kaaimansgat vineyards in Villiersdorp. These vineyards receive limited sunlight exposure due to its elevation and mountainous slopes. Resulting in crisp acidity and length. Dominant flavours of citrus, pear and light oak paired well with the dish of risotto with artichokes.
The third and fourth flights were set aside for the Pinot Noirs and also included one Burgundy Pinot Noir as well as the 2003 Hannibal red blend from Bouchard Finlayson. The piece re resistance was the 2003 Tête de Cuvée Galpin Peak Pinot Noir, a lush and intriguing wine with exuberant fruit and a nuance of forest floor. The 2013 Galpin Peak Pinot Noir has also recently won a Gold medal at the prestigious 2016 Global Pinot Noir Masters awards. A title only select few have the honour of claiming as their own.
Peter Finlayson exudes passion and a deeper understanding of these varietals – a knowledge only achieved through decades of experience and commitment to the vine and it’s temperament. Experiencing his enthusiasm for these varietals is contagious and will have any attendee feeling they have gained a exceptional insiders’ look and a memorable experience.