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Waterkloof reveals latest vintage of dry rosé made with serious intent
Waterkloof Estate on the outskirts of the Helderberg Winelands, has just released the 2011 vintage of its elegantly dry Cape Coral Mourvèdre under the Circumstance label – an internationally famed rosé made with serious intent and showing great harmony.
This Mourvèdre rosé named after its alluring pale pink coral hue, is a sophisticated rendition, known for its dry, but firm taste profile that satisfies with a delicate spice and herb character and subtle savoury palate.
“If there is a wine style which more often than not, tends towards off dry and frivolous, it is rosé but our Cape Coral challenges this stereotype. It is a serious rosé even the boys will love,” shares Waterkloof winemaker Werner Engelbrecht.
The grapes used for the Circumstance Cape Coral Mourvèdre 2011 stem from vineyards in the Stellenbosch region, characterised by mild winters and long hot summers, with the vines planted in cool, deep red soils which provide adequate water for this late ripening variety, allowing the grapes to slowly reach optimum ripeness during the growing season.
The grapes were hand-picked and whole bunch pressed for the gentle extraction of the finest juices, while no further maceration on the skins was allowed. Natural, wild yeast fermentation over a 14 week period added great finesse and complexity to the wine.
Following a ‘hands nearly off’ approach in the vineyards and the cellar, Werner left it up to the fine variations inherent in the terroir to determine the structural finesse and dry character of his Circumstance Cape Coral Rosé 2011. The wine reveals great minerality and clean freshness and reminds one of the rosé wines from Bandol in the South of France.
Dry sensual flavours of red berries allow for immediate appeal and end with a tight, dry finish with herbaceous flavours becoming more prominent as the wine ages. The wine’s great persistence makes it a fantastic food companion. It is natural partner for seafood and even Thai dishes. This sublime summer sip is also a great aperitif, enjoyed with a few oysters.
Rosé aficionados can get the Circumstance Cape Coral Mourvèdre 2011 – selling from R85 per bottle – at the Waterkloof cellar door, selected wine outlets and leading fine dining restaurants.