De Grendel is one of South Africa’s oldest farms and it has just recently launched its 2008 Sauvignon Blanc.

This year’s launch of the De Grendel Sauvignon Blanc was anticipated by many wine lovers. Its 2006 debut was a huge success and 2007 was also very popular.

The De Grendel Estate can be found in Cape Town’s Northern Suburbs. Situated at the top of Tygerberg Hill the estate has amazing mountain views.

Located only 20 minutes from Cape Town’s city centre, you will find a dramatic expanse of land that is home to the De Grendel vineyards, carefully crafted by Winemaker's Guild member Charles Hopkins, producing prestigious wines of consistently exceptional quality.

According to Charles Hopkins, cellar master of the wine estate; “The 2007 Sauvignon Blanc will be remembered as one of the great Sauvignon Blanc vintages in South Africa. We were sceptical on following such a huge vintage, but are extremely excited about the 2008 as we perceive it to be one of the best we have made.”

The 2008 season will be remembered for ongoing rain showers, which caused havoc in some areas. In the case of De Grendel the southeaster came to the rescue with a massive drying effect after each rain fall.

De Grendel also experienced a heat wave during the growing season but the ocean wind ensured a very moderate ripening season.

The 2008 Sauvignon Blanc has a light green hue with a combination of fine capsicum, green fig aromas, granny smith apples and even light pineapple nuances on the nose. The wine has a slightly higher acidity, but appears to be sweeter, although the wine is dry. “On the palate this wine is elegant and dry, with crisp herbaceous notes.”

“This wine is made with natural acidity; eleven different lots were picked and vinified. Skin contact was given to each individual lot according to its composition. Afterwards the wine was carefully blended to represent our 2008 Sauvignon Blanc,” said Hopkins.

The Sauvignon Blanc goes well with dishes like ratatouille, steamed fresh asparagus, smoked salmon salad with lemon vinaigrette, grilled fish or seafood with tomato and herb salsa.

Molo says: “Our team is certainly looking forward to an exceptional tasting at the estate in the near future.

The 2007 Sauvignon Blanc received a very good 4 stars in the 2008 John Platter Wine Guide, with the Koetshuis Sauvignon Blanc being awarded 4 1/2 stars by this renown South African Wine Guide."

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