Blanc de Mer

Effortless drinking qualities make the Blanc de Mer a popular apéritif, however it’s suitability to fresh seafood is unmatched – think Thai red prawn curry, bouillabaisse or simply oysters.

In stark contrast to the previous vintage, this growing season was defined by near-perfect climatological conditions. A cool and sufficiently wet winter preceded a long and dry growing season with the fortuitous lack of major weather events. Ripening of the even and balanced crop occurred during mild sunny days, interspersed by timely and moderate rain. Picking commenced on the 7 of February and concluded five weeks later.

While estate-grown Riesling forms the majority of this unique blend, Viognier tends to drive the aromatics for at least the first year or two. The fruit arrived ripe and healthy - beautifully complementing the steely acidity of our own grapes. Following cool fermentation in stainless steel, the wine was left on lees to allow the palate to build intensity and complexity. A portion of whole-bunch pressed Chardonnay, also seeing no oak, performs a critical role in shaping the blend’s sleek form. The wine was bottled in May 2025.

One of South Africa’s most awarded boutique wine estates lies in a scenic valley just an hour and a half from Cape Town called Hemel-en-Aarde or Heaven-and-Earth. Framed by great fold mountains and breath-taking ocean views it is one of the coolest wine-making regions in the Cape with duplex soil structures and sun-facing slopes. The promise of the unique terroir is harnessed by winemaker Chris Albrecht in slow-ripened flavour-rich wines of exceptional quality. Bouchard Finlayson is globally acclaimed for producing the best Pinot Noir in South Africa as well as exceptional Chardonnays and Sauvignon Blancs. The vineyards are surrounded by an indigenous floral conservancy alive with birdsong and wildflowers. Beyond the beauty of the farm itself you can discover the enchantments of the local area. Some of the popular attractions of nearby Hermanus include whale-watching; shark-cage diving; mountain hiking or biking; browsing art antiques and shops; and of course the white sandy beaches.