New Steenberg wine trio harks back to 1795 Battle of Muizenberg
Steenberg Vineyards has launched a new range of generous, super-premium wines named after three tall ships in the Royal Navy fleet that defeated the Dutch in the Battle of Muizenberg in 1795.
Setting sail for the first British occupation of the Cape of Good Hope, the Ruby, Stately and Sphynx were part of the fleet that advanced on Dutch strongholds in Muizenberg on 7 August. Skirmishes ensued as the Dutch retreated including clashes on the Steenberg foothills.
Reminiscent of this short-lived yet historically significant battle, their namesakes stand tall today as a distinctive collection of Steenberg wines set apart by their rose gold capsules and filigree trim.
“We are excited to launch these new wines as they fill a gap in our portfolio, allowing us to offer wine lovers more choice at an attractive price point. We have really concentrated on quality, and are proud to have these three wines as part of ourSteenberg collection,” says Cellarmaster JD Pretorius.
Steenberg Ruby Rosé 2017 is an invigorating blend of Syrah (51%) and Cinsault (49%) that delights with whiffs of watermelon sorbet, toffee apple and red licorice candy. This striking fruit-forward wine has already hit the high notes scooping Double Gold at Rosé Rocks 2017, South Africa’s only dedicated rosé wine competition. Crisp yet full and creamy with a mouthful of juicy raspberries, wild strawberries and hints of spice, this dry Rosé has lovely depth and refreshes with a zesty citrus finish. It is a fabulous wine for spring, summer, Fridays and all happy occasions in between.
Steenberg Sphynx Chardonnay 2017 is a lightly barrel-fermented Chardonnay that stems from specially selected vineyards in Robertson and Bonnievale. The wine teems with orange blossom, butterscotch and yellow stone-fruit supported by a richly structured palate with nuances of quince and pear. Eminently drinkable now, it will age beautifully for a further two to five years. Enjoy it with shellfish, creamy soups or grilled fish.
Steenberg Stately 2015 is a generous, full-bodied blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (63%) and Shiraz (37%). Notes of ripe blackberries, dried black olives, ripe mulberries and freshly ground black pepper greet the nose. Give it another swirl and observe how liquorice, camphor and a distinct earthiness emerge in your glass.
This is a dense and opulent wine with a silky texture and elegant tannin structure. It is a wonderful red wine to enjoy on its own and stands up well to rich stews and hearty roasts.
The Ruby Rosé 2017 sells for R86, the Sphynx Chardonnay 2017 sells for R135 and the Stately Red 2015 sells for R135 at the Steenberg cellar door in Constantia. All three wines will be available at wine shops country-wide soon. For more information visit www.steenbergfarm.com or join the conversation on Twitter @SteenbergWines and Facebook atfacebook.com/steenbergestate, #SteenbergFleet.
