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We’re kicking off 2023 with a red-hot tasting line-up! First up is Bordeaux 2019 – arguably the ‘best ever’, says Jancis Robinson. We shift our focus to SA in March with a vertical of Glenelly Lady May and a first look at the highly regarded 2017 release. Then join us for a celebration of the golden age of SA Syrah and the rise of Cap Classique, followed by a discovery of hidden treasures from around the world.
Our tastings highlight benchmark producers from across each region, with 12-15 wines per event. These are sit-down tastings, presented in an educational but casual and entertaining manner. Unless otherwise stated, events start promptly at 6 pm and end at 7:30 pm.
Bordeaux is back with the ‘best ever’ 2019s – R995
Cape Town: Wednesday, 22 February, Wine Cellar Observatory
Johannesburg: Thursday, 23 February, Dunkeld West Centre
Bordeaux 2019 caused a seismic shift at the recent Southwold tasting. Jancis Robinson, along with the rest of the Southwold panel, believes the 2019s are shaping up to be even better than the sensational 2016s! ‘Best ever? No hyperbole here, believe it or not,’ she enthuses. Though the Left Bank has been favoured, there are also some terrific Right Bank 2019s on offer.
Glenelly Lady May Vertical: 'One of SA's true icon reds' – R595
Cape Town: Wednesday, 8 March, Wine Cellar Observatory
Be the first to taste Glenelly Lady May 2017 – their most highly rated release yet, from one of SA's greatest vintages. Cellarmaster Dirk van Zyl will take us through a series of vintages, alongside Bordeaux benchmarks, to showcase the evolution of this modern icon. The Bordeaux contingent are all rated 95+ and will be tasted blind.
The Golden Era of SA Syrah: Swartland to the South Coast – R575
Cape Town: Wednesday, 22 March, Wine Cellar Observatory
Johannesburg: Thursday, 30 March, Dunkeld West Centre
South African Syrah is in its golden era, with many top examples achieving 95+ and even perfect scores from leading international critics. Journey through the Swartland – SA’s Syrah capital – with the likes of Mullineux and Porseleinberg. We’ll taste cool-climate expressions from the South Coast's Lismore, Solace and Brunia, as well as must-have sustainable bottlings from Polkadraai.
Cap Classique & Champagne Showdown – R750
Cape Town: Wednesday, 19 April, Wine Cellar Observatory
Johannesburg: Thursday, 20 April, Dunkeld West Centre
Can South Africa's Cap Classiques rival the centuries-old Champagne houses of France? Put your palate to the test and taste a selection of Cap Classiques alongside their Champagne counterparts. Will you be able to tell them apart? From laser-focused Blanc de Blancs to opulent and luxurious styles, we'll explore them all.
Undiscovered Gems from France, Spain, the USA, & Beyond – R495
Cape Town: Wednesday, 10 May, Wine Cellar Observatory
Johannesburg: Thursday, 11 May, Dunkeld West Centre
We love uncovering new and interesting wines from around the world. Join us for an exploration of lesser-known wine regions. Get your geek on with ancient cultivars from Alsace and the Jura, Chardonnay from California and the Mâconnais, and more.
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