There is no shortage of experimentation going on at Villiera. It is encouraged because these experiments frequently result in huge successes. Last year we produced a Hemel en Aarde Pinot Noir and a serious Gamay Noir from our vineyard which turned out so well that they will come onto the market later in the year. In addition, we produced an old vine Pinotage in Amphorae, which have a unique influence on the wine. This idea of returning to traditional methods is a new trend and we have added to our collection of Amphorae. Some of these vessels will be used for "Tete de Cuvee" which is the best quality of sparkling base wine available. As a recent member of the "Old Vine Project", we have identified pockets of old vines that are capable of producing something special. To claim "Old Vine" status, the vines have to be older than 35 years which generally leads to lower yields and better quality. On some of our special "reserve wines" we will begin indicating "Old Vines" where applicable.
Awards
At the end of last year, the John Platter guide awarded us 2 Five Star ratings for our 2012 Monro Brut and the Woolworths (Villiera) Vintage Reserve. To top it all, the Monro Brut was rated best Cap Classique in South Africa by the 2019 JP guide. This is great news and entrenches Villiera as consistently one of the best producers of Sparkling Wine in South Africa. The best news for wine lovers is that the 2012 vintage of Monro Brut is our current vintage.
Wine Sanctuary
The 2 reds we released last year have been extremely well received and we have moved on to 2017 Monro Merlot. The Clan, which needs time, is the 2015 vintage and these wines can be tasted along with our other Villiera and Domaine Grier reserve wines. The "Reserve Wine" tasting is a special option for R110 per person.
Last year we introduced a bubbly/chocolate pairing as an alternative to our bubbly/nougat pairing. To enjoy these options, a booking is required.
Our Game Drives are becoming more and more popular and while Summer is still with us, we suggest you give it a try. Over the last 3 months we have celebrated the arrival of two baby giraffes.
Events
TERROIR TASTING
We have always felt that to truly appreciate a wine, you need to see where it comes from. We are planning a tour of 3 vineyard blocks where we will taste the wines from those blocks, accompanied by canapés.
Date: Saturday, 30th March
Time: 16h30
Place: Villiera
Cost: R250 per person
Wines: Monro Brut, Barrel Fermented Chenin Blanc & Monro Merlot
Bookings:
With Hannelie on 021 865 2002 or email wine@villiera.com before Friday, 22nd March.
Domaine Grier
A cold winter has been experienced in France allowing the vines to enjoy a decent dormancy period. The 2018 harvest was slightly larger than the last few years, but we were happy with the results. The 2018 vintage of both the Rosé and Chardonnay arrived here in January and they are now available for sale.