Wine: Mount Rozier Petit Rozier Cape White

Country: South Africa

Region: Western Cape

Designation: W.O. Western Cape

Producer: Mount Rozier

Grape Varietal: Blend

ABV: 12.5%

Type: White

Code: 8503

Tasting Note

Dried apricot notes and ripe pears are evident on the attractive nose with notes of ripe stone fruits and yellow apple on the palate. Layers of fruit have pleasant fruity acidity and creamy texture.

Producer

Purchased by the Gabb family (owners of Journey’s End winery) in 2009, Mount Rozier was founded at the turn of the 19th century by Annie Rozier, a flower merchant. The Gabbs have nurtured the estate and encouraged the proliferation of many indigenous species of flora and fauna, which inspire the characteristics of Mount Rozier wines. Each wine brings a sense of the terroir and the winery continues to focus on minimal intervention, sustainable and ethical farming practices, and irreconcilable quality.

Winemaking

The grapes are handpicked early morning. After destemming, they are only lightly pressed to ensure good quality juice for fermentation which takes place in stainless steel tanks. The wine rests on the lees for 6 months and is stirred regularly for a good mouthfeel. After 6 months or so, the final blend is fined, cold stabilized, and bottled.

Fun Fact

Mount Rozier was founded at the turn of the 19th century by Annie Rozier, a flower merchant. She picked wildflowers in the Schapenberg hills surrounding her family’s homestead and famously, she also produced natural remedies and medicines for the local community. In the 1920s, the Stellebosch-based estate formed part of Myrtle Grove, where the first-ever commercial plantings of Pinotage were grown in 1941 by Professor Perold.

Food pairing

Ideal with fish and white meat dishes, this is a well-balanced white for casual dining, especially barbecues.