All new Spirit of Malverne – a classic Clos Malverne maverick Limited release Cape Blend a sophisticated act of artistic freedom

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May 6th, 09:23

The Family-owned Clos Malverne Wine Estate, primarily known for its classics flagship Cape Blends stemming from the hidden Devon Valley outside Stellenbosch, has unveiled its rendition of artistic freedom with the launch of its latest limited release wine, Spirit of Malverne 2011.

Winemaker Suzanne Coetzee was given full carte blanche to handcraft a wine that best portrayed her style and the innovative spirit of Clos Malverne, and this ‘no holds barred’ challenge gave birth to this powerful Cape Blend of Pinotage (50%), Cabernet Sauvignon (33%) and Shiraz (17%).

“Clos Malverne’s owner, Seymour Pritchard gave me the freedom to create a new wine for our Limited Release range, without any prescriptions, restrictions, or preconceived ideas of its style and taste. It was humbling, nerve-racking and liberating all at the same time and so Spirit of Malverne was born,” shares Suzanne.

The name is derived from Seymour’s yacht, Spirit, which he personally built more than two decades ago, on the exact same premises where Clos Malverne’s popular restaurant cum tasting room is situated today, to sail around the world.

Available in limited qualities only, Spirit of Malverne 2011 is the first Clos Malverne Cape Blend in which Pinotage as oppose to Cabernet Sauvignon rules, which lends a fragrant fruit character to the wine. It unfolds notes of cassis and stewed fruit at the fore uplifted by the supple blackberry character of the Cabernet whilst the smack of Shiraz adds finesse to this elegant newcomer which lingers with sweet spicy nuances on the palate. The wine spent 18 months in new barrels (80% French oak and 20% American oak) and is well-structured with close-knit yet juicy tannins.

“This wine reminds me of a woman, flawless in her youth whilst her character and unique features make her even more beautiful as she ages gracefully. A Sofia Vergara when you drink it now and a Sofia Loren when it reaches its full maturation potential in the next five to seven years,” adds Suzanne.

The elegant yet full-bodied Spirit of Malverne 2011 is a superb meat partner. Try it with a grilled rump steak topped with gorgonzola and tomato chutney; Springbok loin enriched with a dark chocolate chilli sauce, or a star anise infused slow roasted pork belly with sweet potato mash.

All Clos Malverne wines are exclusive to the cellar or high-class restaurants only, but with the estates virtual wine shop one can gain access to the entire range which is available for online purchase.

Visitors can also buy the wines directly from Clos Malverne’s tasting lounge and restaurant – in fact one actually gets a discount on them if you buy after your dining experience. With its stunning setting amidst the vineyards and breathtaking views of the picturesque Devon Valley, The Restaurant @ Clos Malverne is the perfect retreat to spend a soul-quenching afternoon under the trees, linger over lunch on the wraparound glass balcony or simply to pamper the senses on chilly, rainy days.

To order your Spirit of Malverne 2011 online click on http://closmalverne.co.za/shop or contact the estate at Tel: (+27) for more information. The wine retails at R280 per bottle and there are only 500 bottles available.