Gouverneurs Res garners glowing reviews from Sommeliers, Veritas, NWC
CELEBRATING her 335th birthday in 2020, the Grande Dame of Cape Town’s winelands ranks as one South Africa’s Top 30 cellars. Chardonnay and dessert-wine fans might argue that Groot Constantia is among the country’s top five or six estates, at least, although it can be challenging to pinpoint exactly which category the team is best at or the property most suited to. It’s a large offering, extending to bubbly, brandy and Cape Port, but there are only two labels in the range that carry the designation of ‘Reserve’.
The Gouverneuers Reserve Bordeaux-style blends, red and white, have a history of good reviews internationally, both considered among the leading examples as showcased in the SA Wine Classification. The current-release 2017 vintage of these beauties has been particularly well received, particularly on the local scene in advance of their assessment by panels around the world where the postponement of events due to lockdowns and restrictions in response to the Coronavirus pandemic has been the order of the day.
The Semillon Sauvignon Blanc earned 5 Stars in Platter’s SA Wine Guide, gold at the Veritas Awards (SA) and the title of Best in Class at the country’s National Wine Challenge (NWC). The Cabernet-led combo was included on the ‘Elegant & Classy’ Winelist at the Sommeliers Selection (SA), placed among the Veritas gold medallists and was then one of the three most highly rated reds at NWC 2020.
Oh, and Groot Constantia also won the Cape Blend, Rosé and Dessert Wine classes at the National Wine Challenge, where the estate was applauded as the most successful producer overall.
GROOT CONSTANTIA GOUVERNEURS RESERVE 2017
WO Constantia. 39% Cabernet Sauvignon, 32% Cabernet Franc, 23% Merlot, 6% Petit Verdot. Vineyards close to the Atlantic and just 70m to 120m above sea level. Wine matured for 14 months in 225L French oak barrels (73% new, 18% third-fill, 9% second-fill).
Alc 14.2 | RS 3.2 | TA 5.8 | pH 3.6
Producer’s Tasting Notes: Black currant, dark chocolate and graphite on the nose. New oak adds cinnamon and cedar wood aromas. Time in barrel adds a hint of vanilla to the palate. Firm tannins promise good ageing potential.
Suggested Food Pairings: braised lamb shoulder with fennel and orange or Chipotle, or grilled Filet Mignon in mango salsa with 4 Cheese Risotto.
Cellar-door price: R495pb.
