The
first of its kind in South Africa, the Italian and French designed and produced machinery now allows for the complete
in-house handling of production, where previously part of it was outsourced;
and, a substantial increase in the production of MCC and still wines. More
importantly however, the machinery makes use of the highest level of
engineering. New, fully automatic
riddling machines have also been installed.
“The
installation allows us to achieve a level of consistency and quality for the
brand going forward into the future that rivals the best in the world; says Anthonij Rupert Wyne MD Gary
Baumgarten.
In
addition to greater speed, consistency and efficiency, the advantages of the
new facility are:
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A yeasting tank with new stirring technology that
ensures the even distribution of yeast cells until the last drop in the tank;
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New jetting technology eliminates irregular
oxidisation during corking;
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A dramatic reduction in faults associated with
labelling, corking, etc;
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A modular design that allows for further
expansion;
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The highest standards in hygiene and safety;
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Advanced climate control; and
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Accommodates varied bottle shapes and sizes.
The
new 450m² facility was first conceived by the late Anthonij Rupert, who just before his death dedicated much of
his time to creating the perfect MCC for L'Ormarins. This installation is the
completion of his dreams. The acquisition in February 2011 of land adjoining
L’Ormarins heralded a new phase in the long history of Anthonij Rupert Wyne. This included the addition last year of a multi-level
tasting room, antipasto bar and gourmet emporium to showcase Anthonij Rupert Wyne’s Terra del Capo
range; and, the new Anthonij Rupert
tasting room. This also brought the MCC facility back into focus.
A plan was drawn up and visits by the executive team
to the world’s best Champagne producers in France were undertaken. The
machinery, provided by industry leaders Columbit and Perrier, arrived in July
2013 along with specialists to oversee the installation and commissioning
thereof.
The MCC production facility will be used during
second fermentation phase, with the old white wine cellar at Bellingham now
becoming a dedicated specialised producer of still white and MCC base wine. In
addition to handling MCCs the new line will accommodate the estate’s overflow
white production requirements too. Services will be rendered to the industry on
request only.
The new facilities, which include a laboratory for
continuous sample monitoring, have also created nine permanent positions for
staff members that were previously temporary contractors.
An expanded range of MCCs is on the cards as a
result of the installation. Currently the farm only produces the
L’Ormarins Brut Classique.
There are five ranges in the Anthonij Rupert Wyne
portfolio, of which Anthonij Rupert is the flagship. L’Ormarins is the home its
MCC wine; Terra Del Capo houses its Italian varietals; Protea, designed for
earlier enjoyment; and, Cape of Good Hope, an exciting range made from some of
the oldest South African vines.
For more information visit www.rupertwines.com or contact the farm on 021 874 9041.