A new Rosé has been unveiled by Zandvliet Wine Estate, the home of Shiraz in the famed Robertson Valley of Roses. Captivating and chic, the Zandvliet Shiraz Rosé has a depth of flavour to be expected from masterly-crafted wine.
It is well-known that the quality of any wine is determined by the quality of fruit in the vineyard. For this wine however, Shiraz grapes were specifically farmed to make high-quality rosé.
Within days of release, its provenance was affirmed in a Double Gold medal awarded at the Rosé Rocks, the dedicated championship for South African rosé wines.
"From the start, we were determined to create a wine that reflected the history of Zandvliet and its long heritage with Shiraz," says winemaker Jacques Cilliers, who has been with Zandvliet since 2012.
"We also wanted it to be a tribute to the unique characters who have shaped its story.
"We like to think of the long romance between Zandvliet and Shiraz having culminated this year in this 'pink-feet' rosé," he adds.
The vineyard that produced the wine lies on a gentle, south-facing slope in rocky, chalk-rich soils that underscore all Zandvliet's premier wines.
Jacques notes that the growing season that produced the grapes was characterised by a moderate summer with cooling south-easterly breezes, low night temperatures and a cold winter.
When harvest came, the fruit was picked during the early morning to ensure it remained at its best.
Attentive vinification followed in the cellar resulting in a wine that makes a proud addition to the Zandvliet portfolio.
This milestone Zandvliet Shiraz Rosé is gold-pink in colour and displays a distinct bouquet of rose petals, melon, strawberries and raspberry coulis. The palate is well rounded though refreshingly vibrant, packed with red fruit flavours and a long, floral finish.
It is best enjoyed chilled.
"This is a versatile wine," says Jacques. "It pairs beautifully with seafood, light pastas, fish and pork tenderloin."
Zandvliet Shiraz Rosé sells for around R85 and is available from the farm and selected wine retailers countrywide. Zandvliet Wine Estate is located near the village of Ashton, off the R60.
For more information, contact zandvliet@vanloveren.co.zaor visit www.zandvliet.co.za.
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