Blaauwklippen MCC [sample]
Even more unusual than their still Blaauwklippen's Zin Malbec rosé is this traditional method sparkling Zinfandel!
Can I also just say how much I enjoy the combination of stark black contrasted against copper foiling...so classy!
The Wine:
Pretty copper, with a medium intensity nose of savoury toast, popcorn, and bread dough and subtle citrus, red berries, red plums, and a breath of nutmeg. Those red fruits, grape fruit zest and ripe orange sherbet dominates the palate with its soft mousse...and a touch of butter fennel bulb on the tail end of the lengthy finish.
Viti + Vini:
100% Zinfandel grapes planted on the Tukulu and Kroonstad soils of the Stellenbosch estate in 1991 and 2001.
The grapes went through light whole bunch pressing for a light colour extraction but still with optimal flavour. The juice was settled for 24 hours, racked to stainless steel tanks, and underwent a cold fermentation to preserve the aromatics. Lees stirring for 3 months to add texture and, no doubt, a touch more flavour.
After picking, the grapes were lightly whole bunch pressed, settled for 36 hours before racking into stainless steel tanks, followed by a cold fermentation. Tirage was added and the second fermentation in bottle commenced. The wine was aged on its lees for 16 months before disgorgement in 2020.
Final thoughts:
It was such a delight to try this unusual wine. Many thanks to Blaauwklippen for including me in this press drop.