As all of the premiere range wines commemorate important horses who helped make the Estate the success that it is, it is appropriate that one of the most highly-awarded horses ever bred on this family-owned farm, proudly features on the wine label.
As winemaker Jan van Rooyen commented last week when the wine was released, “Twenty-three years after the first wine was made from this varietal at Avontuur, we are including it in our premiere range. By naming the wine Legal Eagle, we honour one of the great race horses bred at Avontuur Estate. “
Avontuur GM Pippa Mickleburgh explained that a horse like Legal Eagle comes along once in a breeder’s lifetime - if you’re lucky!! “He is from a strong line of excellent stock and from the beginning showed his mettle and star quality, leading to being chosen as Horse of the Year in 2016 and 2017. He has raked in more thanR12 millionfor his owners in the process. He won 15 races in total and as he is still in training, we hope to see some more of his racing prowess in future,” she says.
Philip Taberer, co-owner of the Estate is happy that a spot could be found in the wine range to honour two stars of Avontuur in this way. “It’s always exciting when we get the opportunity to add to the premiere range and this new addition is such a perfect fit - a great horse and a great wine which go together in the best possible way!” he said.
The 2015 vintage delivers a full-bodied taste experience with typical Helderberg Fynbos and dark fruit aromas and a firm tannin structure from 24 months in 2nd and 3rd fill oak. The wine comes from one older block high up against the Helderberg, which adds to the elegance and minerality expected by now from Avontuur’s Cabernet Francs.
Legal Eagle Cabernet Franc Reserve 2015 is available from the tasting room at the Estate for R220 per bottle as well as from the online wine shop at www.avontuurestate.co.za Fans will also soon see it featured in selected retailers around the Western Cape, but as stock is limited, it will not be for sale in general outlets.
Contact our tasting room at winery@avontuurestate.co.za if you want to place an order and arrange delivery.
