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Stellenbosch

Hoopenburg

There have been some major changes in personnel at Hoopenburg in 2004, with Gregor Schmitz acquiring the entire estate. Former partner Ernst Gouws now has his own, eponymous wine business. A new winemaker, Neil Hawkins, and a new consultant viticulturist, Paul Wallace have joined Hoopenburg to put into practice the Schmitz dictum: to produce new age wines in an old world style. We have always thought the wines of Hoopenburg to be of excellent quality and value, so will await the 2005 vintage with much interest

Sauvignon Blanc

2004/5
White
£6.99

 

Ebullient green grass and nettle bouquet, zesty, refreshing and not too dry. A big step-up on the 03, and a tremendous alternative to some of the pricier sauvignon offerings from New Zealand.

 

 

Pinot Noir

2002
Red
£7.49

 

Another new vintage for us, a medium to full bodied offering with some pleasant oak in good balance with the raspberry-like fruits and tight tannins. Very good with cheese and red meats, not necessarily wildebeest, although that reputedly works well.

 

 

Merlot

2001
Red
£7.99

 

Now at its peak, deeply coloured, mature. Chocolate and coffee hints with sweet plumy fruit all in one bottle.

 

 

Ernst & Co

Ernst and his wife, Gwenda sold their share in Hoopenburg and with the help of two daughters and a son have founded a new winery. The purchase of more land is pending and with twenty five years of wine making experience behind him, Ernst is not exactly a Johnny come lately to try his luck at winemaking. Watch this space for more wines soon, but in the meantime try this beautifully crafted white wine.

Chenin Blanc

2004/5
White
£5.99

 

Locally known as Steen, a very popular grape variety in these parts due particularly to its productivity and its resistance to disease and wind. Off dry, refreshing with tropical fruit flavours, a great value alternative to sauvignon and chardonnay for everyday drinking.

 

 

Good Hope Winery

Chenin Blanc

2004
Red
£6.49

 

A lighter style of this popular grape variety, far removed from many of the soupy offerings from down under which carry the same grap variety on their labels. A good wine to keep in stock for those days when unexpected guests turn up, quality as well as value.

 

 
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Stellenbosch
  

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