Bouchard Finlayson’s wine range in 2010 consists of:
2007 Tete de Cuvee Galpin Peak Pinot noir
Vintage 2007 presented a small crop of first class grapes. Rich full wines emerged with excellent early drinking expression. This blend of only twelve barrels is opulent and full of red cherry & blackberry fruit with also a hint of plum and underlying vanilla, all combining to provide an orchestra of flavour. Great architecture with excellent structural balance of acidity and fine tannins. It will age for 5 - 7 years!
2009 Galpin Peak Pinot noir
Bouchard Finlayson Pinot noirs are clearly terroir driven by the knowing impact of our heavy Malmesbury Shale soils which impart firm structure and robust flavour statements in each vintage. This flavour quality is further enhanced by our practice of implementing high density closely planted vines to encourage competition between individual vines! This bottling is rich with luscious soft tannins and dark-coloured forest fruits, deftly balanced on a cord of lingering plum and raspberry delights. Expected to age with appealing composure.
2007 Hannibal
Vintage 2007 has reverted to receiving a much smaller content of Shiraz than in 2006 - This time 13%. Sangiovese dominates with 52% followed by Pinot noir at 14% then Shiraz 13%, Nebbiolo 9%, Mourvedre 9% and Barbera 3%. This wine has concentrated dark fruit nose with an austere, gentle palate weight. Tannins are velvety and offer a slow-pronounced aromatic finish!
2009 Kaaimansgat Limited Edition Chardonnay.
In this blend the element of innovation is presented by blending a classic barrel-fermented portion of Chardonnay (60%) with a fruity non-malo unwooded portion (40%). The barrel fermented portion is all new French oak! The style is classic, cool climate Chardonnay with voluptuous bright authoritative fruit tones layered on harmonious oak flavours, all balanced in a synonymous elegance!
2009 Missionvale Chardonnay
A very distinctive and specific terroir component reflects true to type and the tradition of maintaining 30% new best French Oak with a total of seven months maturation.
This wine presents pages of different taste sensations. First creamy yeast, followed by mild wood tones surrounded by vanilla and aromatic layers of apricot and cantaloupe. Finally resonating a long citrus and quince finish. Longevity and ageing will enhance completely!
2008 Crocodile's Lair / Kaaimansgat Chardonnay
Vintage 2008 was very late but has still managed to produce another excellent Chardonnay bottling. Characterised by rich mineral and citrus fruit design overlaid with peach & vanilla flavour tones all enhanced by only the best French Oak – 25% being new barrel compliment.
2009 Sans Barrique Chardonnay
Un-oaked Chardonnays from France often have a “flinty” note, sometimes described as “gout de pierre a fusil” These are grown on Kimmeridge clay. Vintage 2009 Sans Barrique has been naturally produced with an emphatic fruit purity and minerality. Great length from tantalizingly luscious acidity. Strong hints of peach and kiwi fruit with a few drops of lemon! Forward and appealing, perfectly suited for those who find wooded Chardonnays too powerful.
2009 Sauvignon Blanc ‘Reserve’
The Sauvignon blanc grape gets its name from the French savage (“wild”) but fortunately this cuvee is more aptly described as strikingly elegant with a flinty nose where the palate is crisp and clean with a bright lingering finish. The wine is stylised with the addition of 12% Semillon and also enjoys a very small contribution of French oak. Expected to evolve with at least four years maturation in its favour.
2009 Walker Bay Sauvignon blanc
The grapes from vintage 2009 have presented perfect fruit. It was a long dry season with ideal ripening conditions following a late winter and above average spring rainfall. This elevated vintage presents a really fresh generously bodied wine with full zesty aromatic flavours, a long mineral finish and promise to develop with a full palate!
2009 Blanc de Mer
This blend varies from year to year but it is similar to 2007 where Riesling comprised 39%. Next is Viognier at 28%, Chardonnay 13%, Chenin Blanc 9%, Sauvignon Blanc 8% and Semillon at 3%. A Rich vintage offering a medley of flavours covering a symphony of fruits such as quince, gooseberry, peach and orange blossom. It is rich and inviting and ideal for relaxed occasions, especially during warm summer days!
