The discovery of the Easter Weekend and one of the gems of the Hemel-en-Aarde
Current roadworks were somewhat tricky with the first Easter rainfalls, but well worth the journey to the estate. The completed tar road will make for a smoother trip.
One approaches the tasting room, based at the slopes of the magnificent towering Babylon Toren Mountains, through beautiful fynbos gardens filled with rich bird life.
Large glass windows surround the tasting room optimizing the splendid views of the vineyards below. The decor is open with a modern, eclectic feel.
The owners JC & Carolyn have paid great attention to detail right down to the beautiful Riedel glasses one savours the wine in. They are actively involved and an integral part of the wine tasting experience.
We were looked after by Khael, who we discovered much to our delight was not Russian by birth as we had thought, but home spun from Hermanus.
Wines most enjoyed:
Chardonnay 2011 – is old world style, straw yellow in colour, with a full-bodied palate and a creamy richness of vanilla and citrus. To be enjoyed with chicken and seafood dishes
Merlot-Cabernet Sauvignon-Petit Verdot 2011– currently the only Bordeaux-style blend grown and made in the Hemel-en-Aarde, it is a rich wine, blue-black in colour with concentrated blackberries & chocolate flavours. Wonderful with red meat or game. Best decanted before drinking.