There are so many wine regions in the Cape, which I still need to explore. One, in particular, is Tulbagh. It is a wine route that is fast gaining popularity, and I think warrants more of my attention. A recent visit to Montpellier Wine Estate, to taste their new summer vintages, as well as stay the night was the perfect way to find out more about the area.
Montpellier Wine Estate
Steeped in history, the Cape Dutch Wine Estate, recently celebrated their 300th Anniversary. As well as producing award-winning wine, Montpellier Wine Estate is a stunning event venue and offers charming, country accommodation.
A hidden gem by all accounts, the Estate has a quaint Hillside Chapel, Cape Dutch Homestead, Reception Facilities and Expansive Grounds. All, offering incredible views of the magnificent surrounding mountains.
Wines
The prospect of visiting Montpellier Wine Estate was exciting from a few different aspects. I had the opportunity to taste their latest vintages, as well as the other Montpellier wines I had heard so much about.
Our tasting started with their new “2017 summer wines”, a Shiraz Rose, Chenin Blanc and Sauvignon Blanc. My favourites were the Shiraz Rose and Sauvignon Blanc.
2017 Shiraz Rose
The Montepellier Rose is a French-style, dry Rose. In my opinion, a Rose wine should be fragrant and fruity, as well as dry. The 2017 Shiraz Rose is crisp and fruity with strawberry and cherry on the palate. A dry Rose is my wine of choice for summer, and this one will do nicely, as the finish is crisp and smooth. It will pair well with lighter meals such as salads and seafood. RRP R80.00.
2017 Sauvignon Blanc
As you know, Sauvignon Blanc is not my favourite varietal, but I was pleasantly surprised by this wine. In my opinion, the nose, which has more “green” notes, belies what you would expect from the taste. The predominant flavour on the palate is fruity, which is a pleasant change from the more acidic, grassy, style of Sauvignon Blanc. I also like the fact that the wine is medium to full-bodied, making it a good “food” wine. RRP R90.00.
After tasting the new vintages, we moved to the “Glass House” to sample the balance of the Estate Wines. I am not going to write about all of the wines we tasted; I would rather you take a trip out to the Estate and do a full tasting yourself. You will not be sorry! Below are a few that impressed me.
2011 MCC Brut Chardonnay
The 2011 Blanc de Blanc is made from 100% Chardonnay grapes and kept on the lees for a minimum of five years. It is wonderfully dry with a hint of oakiness and fresh, green apple on the palate. I think this wine will pair extremely well with seafood and more especially oysters. As MCC’s go, I rate the Brut Chardonnay very highly and love the gorgeous bottle. RRP R165.00.
2012 Shiraz
Shiraz is my favourite red wine, and it is also the Montpellier flagship wine. This wine is oak matured for 12 months and extremely well balanced. There is spicy berry on the nose, with a hint of dark roast coffee. The palate is fruity with slight savoury notes, the tannins are soft, which finishes with a lingering, peppery spiciness. RRP R200.00.
2013 Spysenierberg “Blue Label”
Last but not least is the 2013 Spysenierberg “Blue Label”. Spysenierberg or “Chefs Mountain”, is a red blend of 48% Merlot, 38% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Shiraz and 5% Petit Verdot. The varietals have been individually oaked for 12 months. I could say that the Spysenierberg is easy drinking, but that would not do it justice. A better description would be is that it is incredibly easy to drink. Although it is a blend, the wine is full-bodied, fragrant on the nose, with juicy red fruit and herbaceous flavours on the palate. RRP R75.00, which I think is excellent value for money.
Wine Tasting
Wine tasting at the estate is available from Monday to Sunday, from 10:00 – 15:00 and there is a tasting fee of R45.
Accommodation
The rustic farm-style accommodation at Montpellier Wine Estate transports you back to a bygone era. The original, restored, Cape Dutch farm buildings, feature wooden floors, thick walls, thatch roofs and picturesque white gables. Accommodation ranges from country style B&B in the Manor House, to self-catering in the Annex House or Rietdakkies.
I would love to stay over again in summer to experience more of the beautiful gardens and enjoy bubbly and a picnic on the lawn. There is also a pool overlooking the mountains and fields, which will be perfect in the warmer weather.
Events
As well as producing great wine and offering accommodation, Montpellier Wine Estate is the perfect setting for a wedding or special occasion. They can provide catering for up to 200 guests and accommodation for up to 42 overnight guests. The Cape Dutch Manor House, Wine Cellar and Glass House offer a variety of ideal venues.
Not to forget the beautiful grounds, with lush lawn, gardens, hidden paths and tree-lined walkways, which are the perfect backdrop to celebrate your special moments.
If you have not visited the estate yet or tasted their wines, I highly recommend you do both. I cannot wait to go back to both Montpellier, and Tulbagh to discover more about this scenic town.
Contact Details and Location
For enquiries or reservations contact Montpellier via telephone 0232300656 or email. Location: GPS COORDINATES: 33°16’29.1″S 19°06’59.8″E
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Disclosure
I enjoyed complimentary accommodation, meals and wine tasting as a guest of Montpellier. Copyright: All opinions, content, and images are the property of ©Inspired Living or ©Fiona Rossiter unless otherwise stated. Please do not duplicate content in any way without consent from the copyright holder and owner of Inspired Living. To see more, read the full PR & Disclosure Policy below.
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