It’s a Double Gold and two Golds for Anthonij Rupert Wyne’s L’Ormarins range at the 2021 Amorim Cap Classique Challenge. Double Gold went to the L’Ormarins Blanc de Blancs 2015, with Gold awarded to the L’Ormarins Brut Rosé NV and L’Ormarins Brut Classique NV, respectively. The results were announced on 16 September 2021 at a special media event held at Tintswalo Lodge in Cape Town.
No strangers to this competition, the L’Ormarins Brut Rosé NV has previously received Gold twice before, in 2020 and 2019, with it also being the second Double Gold Award for the L’Ormarins Blanc de Blancs having previously received this accolade for the 2013 vintage in 2019.
The Amorim Cap Classique Challenge is South Africa’s leading event in recognition of the country’s overwhelming array of naturally-fermented sparkling wines, iconically known as Cap Classique. Held annually since 2002, the Cap Classique Challenge shares Amorim Cork’s values; a commitment to excellence and the relentless pursuit of ultimate quality in a natural product.
“It is wonderful to receive this recognition for our our continued dedication in pursuing the best practices and making use of innovative techniques,” says Anthonij Rupert Wyne MD Gary Baumgarten. “Making quality Cap Classique wines requires long term commitment, and we therefor celebrate the fact that winemaker Zanie Viljoen who has made our Cap Classique wines from the start is being recognised for her continued commitment to produce the best”
With a firm eye on the future of South African Cap Classique wines, and total dedication to producing world class products, Anthonij Rupert Wyne invested heavily in updated technology in both their Cap Classique Cellar and bottling facilities over the last six years. Meticulous care is applied in vineyard management and viticultural practices with the bulk of grapes selected from the company’s Altima estate. Amongst South Africa’s highest altitude vineyards, this Estate’s Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes deliver unprecedented flavour intensity partnered with crisp acidity so essential in Cap Classique wines.
From the outset the L’Ormarins Blanc de Blancs 2015 radiates elegance and sophistication in its striking packaging. Grapes were sourced from vineyards on the estate’s Altima property in the Elandskloof valley, which is renowned for its high altitudes – perfect for producing exceptional Cap Classique made from 100% Chardonnay. Fermentation in the bottle takes a leisurely four years adding ultimate complexity and creaminess. The lively fine mousse makes way for a burst of zesty lemons and green apple intermingled with a hint of oyster shell on the nose and palate. The finish is rich, broad and creamy while remaining elegant and refined in the final finish.
With the dominant varietal being Pinot Noir, which contributes to its delicate salmon colour, the L’Ormarins Brut Rosé NV is guaranteed to be a crowd pleasing delight. A hand-crafted wine which is best described as delivering a constant stream of fine bubbles with delicious aromas of raspberry and strawberries on the nose, and a slight hint of peppery spice nuances. With excellent structure, length and a lingering aftertaste, this is a wine for all seasons.
Initially the brain child of the late Anthonij Rupert, the L’Ormarins Brut Classique NV, was borne out of his belief that Cap Classiques in South Africa had great potential, as is evident today. His vision resulted in a first-class Cap Classique made from a blend of Chardonnay (60%) and Pinot Noir (40%) grapes. A hand-crafted wine best described as elegant, fresh and lively, rich in minerality, displaying hints of brioche, citrus and frambiose. The Chardonnay yields a fresh lime character, accentuated by the high natural acidity, whilst the Pinot Noir provides hints of perfume notes.
For more information on the L’Ormarins range, visit www.lormarinswines.com
Categories: L'Ormarins
