CELLAR 228 SASKATCHEWAN
South Africa, New Zealand and Australia
Order by NOVEMBER 24, 2014
ORDERING MADE EASY! WHAT TO ORDER Read the description or use the profile chart for each wine to help you make your selections. The profile chart features a variety of symbols; consult the legend below to discover which symbols best suit your palate. THERE ARE FIVE WAYS TO ORDER • Order online. Go to opim.ca , sign in and select Order Wine - Show Details or Quick Order Wine. • Email opim@opim.ca with your selection. • Call 1-800-361-9421. • Fax your order to 514-481-9699. • Mail your order in the envelope provided. THERE ARE TWO WAYS TO REDEEM YOUR COUPON From the same Cellar Offering… • Order a case of wine and choose your free case from the coupon wines listed on the back cover. OR • Order two cases of wine and receive $75 off your order. Restrictions: Coupons are non-transferrable and cannot be exchanged for cash. See coupon for full details Exclusions: Opimian Select and Founders’ Choice Programs. DELIVERY It takes time! The wines on this Cellar Offering are not yet in Canada. When the wine arrives at your local liquor store or distribution center, you will receive a Pick Up Notice with the specified date (the Release Date) and your pick up location. You can follow the status of your shipment at opim.ca. Expected arrival at a Canadian Port is mid-March 2015. Release dates are dependent upon actual arrival dates, distance from port of entry to liquor board, and processing time required by each liquor board. LET US HELP YOU! Contact us at 1-800-361-9421 or email us at opim@opim.ca Undisturbed by glaciation and relatively untouched by volcanic activities, South Africa’s wine country plays host to the oldest documented soil types. At the confluence of the south Atlantic and Indian Ocean currents, a perfect Mediterranean climate supports a diversity of microclimates. Cabernet Sauvignon remains the #1 variety planted in South Africa and the Warwick team is proud to have its Cabernet Sauvignon grapes featured on the cover of this cellar offering. -Mike Ratcliffe, Managing Director
CONDITIONS OF PURCHASE • Methods of Payment: Credit Card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express) or by cheque payable to Opimian. • Prices include all applicable federal and provincial mark ups and taxes, including GST/HST #105 233 217 and QST #1000640430. • A valid 2014 membership card is required to order and pick up. • Bottle prices are for reference only. All orders are by the case, with no minimum required. • Last day to order from this Cellar Offering: November 24, 2014.
LEGEND Members’ Choice
White
Aroma
Drink this year
Red
Taste
Enjoyable now; will develop 6 months-2 years
Serving temperature
Rosé
Opimian Suggests Wine meant for laying down
Ideal with
Sparkling
Bottle size Great concentration Heavy oak
Number of bottles in case Medium concentration
Light in body
Medium oak
Light oak
Less than 100 cases available Very limited quantities
Extremely limited quantities Limited quantities
Degrees of Maturity (M) (Scale of 1-10) 1 = lay down 10 = fully mature Degrees of Drinkability (D) (Scale of 1-10) 1 = needs time 10 = ready to drink
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OPIMIAN CELLAR CELLIEROFFERING 209 228
Medal Winner
This symbol denotes wines most ordered by Opimian members. These are consistently popular with our membership at large.
Appeared in the C220 Select Cases (2014 Season)
To help novice members, this symbol is a guide to wines that are suitable for starting a cellar, and/or for drinking within two years of delivery.
Sweetness scale gms/litre 00 0-3 01 4-6 02 7 - 12 03 13 - 20 04 21 - 34 05 35 - 50 06 51 - 74 07 75 - 100 08 101 - 139 09 140 - 179 10 180 >
Examples Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, many reds Some New World varietals, some reds Champagne, Sparklers, Rosés, few reds Mosel, some Alsace, Anjou Semi-sweet Bordeaux, some sherry Kabinett German, Late Harvest, Alsace Spätlese German, Sweet Loire, Port, Dessert Muscat Auslese, Beerenauslese Icewines, Sauternes, Barsac, dessert wines, Port Icewines, Sauternes, Barsac, dessert wines, Port Speciality sweet wines, Trockenbeerenauslese
CELLAR OFFERING 228 South Africa, New Zealand and Australia
Opimian’s Wine Consultant Jane Masters MW is a graduate of Bordeaux’s famous Institut d’Oenologie and was elected to the Institute of Masters of Wine in 1997. Fluent in French and English, Jane is currently a member of the Council of the Institute of Masters of Wine, regularly speaks at industry seminars and is a Panel Chair for the International Wine Challenge.
Warwick Wine Estate p. 4
Berton Vineyards p. 15
It is difficult to believe that I am just about to start selecting the wines for my fifth cellar offering season with Opimian! When the Opimian Society was established over 40 years ago, the wine choice offered through the liquor boards was restricted. In those initial days Opimian offered members the opportunity to drink better quality wines with cellar offerings based around traditional regions such as Bordeaux and Chablis. Like the world of wine, the Opimian Society has evolved. My initial focus, as I embark on this fifth season, is the Southern Hemisphere with wines from South Africa, New Zealand, and Australia. My goal today is the same as it was for my predecessor, Ken Christie MW, 40 years ago, to find producers and wines that offer great value to our members. Warwick Wine Estate in Stellenbosch has been nominated by Wine Enthusiast magazine for the New World Winery of the Year award as I write, and well-deserved too as their wines are truly delicious. Anyone that doesn’t believe South Africa can make world-class, top notch wines should taste the Vilafonté Series M, 2012 produced by Warwick’s Mike Ratcliffe in conjunction with Californians Dr. Phil Freese and Zelma Long. Our range from South Africa includes a selection of wines from De Meye Wines and Vrede Wines also from Stellenbosch, South Africa’s most famous wine-producing region. New Zealand had a vintage of two halves in 2014. Fortunately, Manuka Hill Estate harvested all its grapes before Cyclone Ita hit and has produced some delicious whites. Australia offers a spectrum of quality levels and styles from affordable everyday drinking wines produced by Berton Vineyards, to unusual varietal blends made by Hastwell & Lightfoot, to Geoff Hardy’s GMH and K1 ranges and the bold reds and elegant whites from Shottesbrooke Vineyards.
Wine Concepts p. 8
Manuka Hill Estate p. 12
Hastwell & Lightfoot Vineyards p. 18
Shottesbrooke Vineyards p. 21
Geoff Hardy Wines p. 24
SASKATCHEWAN
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South Africa
Warwick Wine Estate Stellenbosch Hot off the press, news has just come in that Warwick Wine Estate has been nominated for the New World Winery of the Year award by Wine Enthusiast magazine. Many congratulations to Norma, Mike and winemaker Nic van Aarde for a deserved nomination and fingers crossed! The wines just get better and better. Warwick Wine Estate was purchased by Norma Ratciffe and her husband Stan in 1964, and the first vines planted in 1971. Canadian born Norma became, and is to this day, an influential and formidable force within the South African wine community; Warwick Wine Estate is one of the flagship estates in South Africa.
Warwick’s Block 16 - Sauvignon Blanc was planted in 1992 and totals 1.69 hectares. Located 300 meters above sea level, it is trellised in the VSP (vertical shoot positioning) style.
7805
Warwick The First Lady Unoaked Chardonnay, 2014
$17.83
Bright yellow in colour, The First Lady Unoaked Chardonnay has fresh fruit aromas of lemons, limes and pears. Soft on the palate, it reveals nice white fruits, white peaches and pears with a definite lemon citrus finish. Light, dry and refreshing, there is more structure and depth than the Bonnievale Chardonnay.
$107.00
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Chardonnay Lemon, limes, pears Peaches, pears, white fruits, [00] 6° C 2015-2016, M8 D9 Steamed mahi mahi with lime, garlic and chillies
OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 228
SOUTH AFRICA WARWICK WINE ESTATE >>
7806 $22.00
$132.00
Warwick Professor Black Sauvignon Blanc, 2014 If you like Sauvignon Blanc, this wine is a must. Intense aromas of gooseberry, green fruits, elderflower and a hint of petrol lead to a soft attack on the palate with good weight and structure, and a long, tangy lime finish. I kept this back after the tasting as a well-deserved treat and shared it with friends on the terrace at the end of the day. A great aperitif, it will also pair perfectly with oysters and all sorts of seafood and fish. As my friends pointed out, the name sounds like something from a Clue game, but actually refers to a researcher from Stellenbosch whose work on peaches was carried out on the plot now planted with Sauvignon Blanc vines. Located at 180 metres, the vines benefit from a constant cool breeze allowing full flavour development.
SOUTH AFRICA WARWICK WINE ESTATE >>
Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon Intense gooseberry, hint petrol Elderflower, tangy lime acidity, [00] 6° C 2015-2016, M8 D9 Dungeness crab cake with spicy tomato and onion relish
SASKATCHEWAN
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7807 $17.83
$107.00
7808 $25.50
$153.00
7809 $33.50
$201.00
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Warwick The First Lady Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013 Warwick’s The First Lady Cabernet Sauvignon 2013 is softer and more approachable than previous vintages. Appealing aromas of plums, floral notes and herbs lead to an initially soft attack on the palate, but with good mid-palate fruit and chewy tannin on the finish. Produced from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon (in some years a small amount of Shiraz is added) the wine was matured for 18 months in old oak barrels and is perfect for drinking soon and over several years. It is named after Norma Ratcliffe who founded Warwick Wine Estate with her husband Stan, and who went on to become one of South Africa’s most reputed winemakers.
Warwick Estate Pinotage, Old Bush Vines, Stellenbosch, 2013 This is Pinotage at its best! Deep in colour with mellow, rich berry fruits, mulberries and red cherries, it is succulent and rich on the palate. Concentrated berry flavours combine with vanilla and a juicy finish; a star! The Pinotage grape variety was created in South Africa at Stellenbosch University in 1925. It remains unique to South Africa where it is used to make a range of wine styles. The Warwick Wine Estate old bush vines were planted over 20 years ago. The wine was matured for 14 months in two to four year old oak barrels.
Warwick Three Cape Ladies Cape Blend, 2012 Produced in honour of three generations of ladies at Warwick Wine Estate, Norma, her daughter Jenny and granddaughter Eve, the Three Cape Ladies 2012 is a Cape blend of 40% Pinotage, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon and 30% Shiraz. Starting to show attractive, mellow, developed characteristics, the bouquet is a little restrained with ripe cooked fruits, vanilla and coconut. Soft and silky on the palate, berry flavours continue with vanilla, chocolate and bitter cherry which linger. Delicious now, it will cellar for an additional three to five years. Each of the component varieties brings its characteristics creating harmonious balance. The wine was aged for 18 months in French oak, 15% new.
OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 228
Cabernet Sauvignon Plummy fruits, herbs Floral, nice mid-palate fruit 16° C 2015-2018, M7 D9 Rosemary-pepper beef rib roast with porcini jus
Pinotage Mellow, rich berries, red cherries Succulent, concentrated berry flavours, vanilla 18° C 2015-2017, M8 D9 Venison loin with cherry Cumberland sauce
Pinotage, Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz Mellow, vanilla, coconut, fruits Red berries, chocolate, bitter cherry 18° C 2015-2020, M6 D9 Moroccan lamb tagine
In 1984 the first Warwick Cabernet Sauvignon, called ‘la femme bleu’- the blue lady, was released by Norma Ratcliffe.
SOUTH AFRICA WARWICK WINE ESTATE >>
7810 7814 $16.67
$100.00 COUPON
7811 7815 $16.67
$100.00 COUPON
7812 $18.33
$110.00
Bonnievale Unpretentious Chardonnay, 2014
Chardonnay
Free case CHOICE for this Cellar Offering
Pears, melons
Pale in colour, the Bonnievale Unpretentious Chardonnay is just that, with light white fruits, pears, melon, and soft flavours; it is extremely quaffable. Produced in the Robertson region, inland and 160 kilometres east of Stellenbosch and Paarl, over the Hawequas Mountains on the banks of the Breede River, the region is known for its limestone soils and warm, dry climate. South easterly winds help to funnel cooling marine air off the Indian Ocean into the valley providing some relief, but irrigation of the vineyards is an absolute necessity.
Simple, fruity, very quaffable, [00] 6° C 2015-2016, M9 D9 Spaghetti alla carbonara
Bonnievale Unpretentious Shiraz, 2013
Shiraz
Free case CHOICE for this Cellar Offering
Ripe cherries
Traditionally a white wine region, Robertson is increasingly recognized for its red wines, in particular Shiraz. The Bonnievale Unpretentious Shiraz 2013 provides great value. Mellow ripe cherry fruit aromas combine with a soft, light palate and a touch of liquorice on the finish. The grapes were hand-picked and a cold maceration on skins carried out for 24 hours prior to fermentation. Half the wine was aged in old oak barrels for 12 months with the other half aged in tank with staves. This is a perfect barbecue wine.
Red fruits, a liquorice twist
Faraway Farm Pinotage, 2014 This is a lighter, fruitier style of Pinotage compared to the Warwick Estate Old Bush Vines Pinotage. Youthful, fruity red berries and floral aromas introduce a juicy palate. Light in structure, it is perfumed; flavours of lavender and roses linger on the finish. Produced through a joint venture between Mike Ratcliffe and Bonnievale Wines, it offers good value for money.
16° C 2015-2016, M8 D9 Chargrilled pork chop with braised red cabbage and celeriac purée
Pinotage Youthful, perfumed, berry fruits Light, long floral finish 16° C 2015-2017, M8 D9 Roasted sweet potato, aubergine and red pepper on couscous
7813 $57.33
$344.00
Vilafonté Series M, 2012 Anyone that doesn’t believe South Africa can make outstanding, top quality wines should try this wine; it is truly scrumptious if you want to treat yourself now or in a couple of decades. Vilafonté is a joint venture between Mike Ratcliffe and Americans Dr. Phil Freese and Zelma Long. The estate produces two wines, Series M and Series C. Both are superb, yet distinctive styles. The “M” stands for Malbec and Merlot, which are the basis of the 2012 Series M blend. It is elegant, succulent and complex. Dense in colour, it has aromas of vanilla and cooked berry compote. The palate is mellow, multi-layered and refined with great balance. A touch of Cabernet Sauvignon adds some structure to the blend. Aged in oak for 20 months, 20% new, it is deliciously attractive now and will continue to develop. It is named after the Vilafontes soil found on the estate, one of the oldest soil types at between 750,000 and 1.5 million years, which dates back to the Stone Age. Indeed stone cutting tools have been found on the surface of the 42 hectare estate which lies in the shadow of the Simonsberg Mountain in the Paarl region. Planted with four Bordeaux grape varieties, these are some of the most densely planted vineyards in South Africa.
SOUTH AFRICA WARWICK WINE ESTATE
Malbec, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon Cooked berry compote, vanilla Succulent, complex, multi-layered, depth, great balance 18° C 2015-2020, M6 D9 Filet mignon with shallot cream sauce
SASKATCHEWAN
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wine concepts Stellenbosch The Stellenbosch region, lying around the town of Stellenbosch itself, is the wine capital of South Africa. The mountain slopes offer cool air and breezes blow in from False Bay to moderate the daytime temperature. Soils vary from light and sandy to heavier soils on the mountain slopes and decomposed granite at the foot of the mountain ranges. De Meye Wines has been in the Myburgh family for six generations; the wines are made by Marcus Milner. Vrede Wines, which is located in the eastern hills of the Bottelary ward of Stellenbosch, was founded in 1992 by Kleintjie Bellingan. He transformed the dairy farm into, what is today, 52 hectares of vineyards.
Entrance to the De Meye cellars.
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OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 228
SOUTH AFRICA WINE CONCEPTS >>
7817 $25.17
$151.00
7818 $25.17
$151.00
7819 $25.00
$150.00
7820 $23.00
$138.00
De Meye Chenin Blanc, Stellenbosch, 2014 Winemaker Marcus Milner grew up on a stud farm in the heart of the Stellenbosch region. After a stint abroad, Marcus returned to South Africa to his first winemaking job with Norma Ratcliffe at neighbouring Warwick Wine Estate. Chenin Blanc grapes were hand-picked, pressed and fermented resulting in a deeply coloured wine with an earthy, honeyed nose. Medium-bodied, on the palate there are apricots and tangy citrus acidity. There is more Chenin Blanc planted in South Africa than in the Loire Valley in France, its original home.
De Meye Unwooded Chardonnay, Stellenbosch, 2014 A refreshingly dry, unoaked Chardonnay, the De Meye 2014 has melon and pear drop aromas. Concentrated and structured, it has green apple flavours with a long, mineral finish. A testament to Marcus’ winemaking skills, 2014 is reported to be one of the most challenging vintages for a long time in Stellenbosch. Heavy rainy spells in October, November and January caused the grapes to swell, generally diluting flavours, but not in this wine.
De Meye Shiraz Rosé, Stellenbosch, 2014 Shiraz grapes were hand-picked and whole-bunch pressed with minimal contact time on the skins producing a wine with a slightly salmon pink hue. Red fruit and yoghurt aromas follow through onto the palate with berries and herbal flavours balanced with acidity. All the grapes are grown on the De Meye farm owned by Jan and Philip Myburgh. They are the fifth and sixth generation to farm this estate named after the birthplace of the first Myburgh to come to South Africa in 1665.
Myburgh & Milner Shiraz, Stellenbosch, 2013 The 100 hectare De Meye estate is planted with 50 hectares of vineyards. Until 1997 the grapes were sold and today a proportion of the total harvest still is. In 1997 the decision was made to renovate and convert some old outbuildings into a winery. Marcus Milner and his team take the pick of the crop to produce the De Meye wines. The Myburgh & Milner Shiraz 2013 has delicious black cherry fruits, olives and some chocolate aromas. Medium to fullbodied, it has juicy mid-palate fruit with a long, bitter cherry and chocolate finish. Shiraz was hand-picked, crushed and fermented in stainless steel tanks. The wine was then matured in French oak barrels for 12 months. Perfect for drinking now, it can be cellared for several years.
SOUTH AFRICA WINE CONCEPTS >>
Chenin Blanc Honey, earthy fruit Medium-bodied, citrus finish, [00] 6° C 2015-2017, M8 D8 Salmon tartare served on homemade crisps
Chardonnay Melon, pear drops Firm palate, green apple finish, [00] 6° C 2015-2017, M8 D8 Roasted sea bass with potatoes, capers, thyme and olives
Shiraz Red fruits, yoghurt Red berries, herbs, [00] 6° C 2015-2016, M9 D9 Pasta with fresh tomatoes alla Napoletana with olive oil, garlic and basil
Shiraz Olives, black cherries, chocolate Juicy black cherry fruits, dark chocolate finish 18° C 2015-2018, M7 D9 Espresso and cocoa-rubbed flank steak with sautéed wild mushrooms and cherries in balsamic reduction
SASKATCHEWAN
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7821 $25.17
$151.00
7822 $30.67
$184.00
Charmé Cabernet Sauvignon, Stellenbosch, 2013 A lush, ripe South African Cabernet Sauvignon with lots of appeal, Vrede Wines lies on the eastern slopes of the Bottelary ward in Stellenbosch region, noted for warm reds. Cabernet Sauvignon is cultivated on weathered granite soils. The Charmé is bursting with black summer fruits, blackberries and floral aromas with more mocha and chocolate flavours shining through on the palate. It is light to medium-bodied with a juicy mid-palate and chewy tannins on the finish. After quick fermentation partially in wood and partially in stainless steel, the wine was aged in old French oak barrels for 12 months. It is perfectly ready for early drinking.
Vrede Vineyard Select Cabernet Sauvignon, Stellenbosch, 2013 The Vineyard Select is a more structured and altogether more serious style made from selected barrels. It is perfect for those looking to build up their cellar. The wine is currently tightly structured and needs some time to open up. It is concentrated and balanced with a fine texture. Aromas of blueberries, green capsicum peppers, leaves and soot will develop and mellow into a complex bouquet. The vines are cultivated on slopes of weathered granite and sandstone looking out towards False Bay. After fermentation and extended maceration, the wine was run off into French oak barrels for 12 months, 25% new.
Cabernet Sauvignon Dark summer fruits, blackberries, floral Mocha, chocolate 18° C 2015-2018, M7 D8 Warm salad of duck confit served with cherries and blackberries
Cabernet Sauvignon Blueberries, soot, bell pepper Concentrated, firm tannins 18° C 2015-2019, M6 D7 Slow-cooked venison stew with herbed dumplings
The De Meye vineyards are situated in the Stellenbosch sub-region known as Greater Simonsberg. Because of its beautiful countryside and the many different habitat types, it is home to a variety of faunal and floral species.
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OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 228
SOUTH AFRICA WINE CONCEPTS >>
7823 $32.83
$197.00
7824 $23.83
$143.00
Vrede Vineyard Select Cape Blend, Stellenbosch, 2010 The term Cape Blend refers to a South African wine blend which contains a minimum of 30% Pinotage. In the case of the Vrede Vineyard Select Cape Blend 2010 the majority grape is Cabernet Sauvignon at 50%, combined with 33% Pinotage and 17% Petit Verdot. The resulting wine is focused more on the red fruit spectrum of flavours rather than black fruit, with an elegant coconut oak as opposed to the often smoky, savoury characteristics associated with many South African reds. The style is light and juicy with ripe red fruits and cumin, spicy flavours. It is still showing youthful, a more feminine style if you will. The vines are cultivated on the Glenrosa soils of the Bottelary Hills with ages ranging between 11 and 26 years and producing low yields. The grapes were hand-picked and left to cold macerate before fermentation. The wine was matured for 20 months in French and American oak.
Jabari Cape Red, Western Cape, 2012 Produced from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, the Jabari Cape Red is deep ruby in colour. It has an herbal nose with elements of thyme, dill and grassy notes combined with cherries. Light to medium-bodied it has appealing red fruit flavours and a fresh, astringent cranberry twist on the finish. The grapes were cultivated in the greater Simonsig subregion of Stellenbosch facing southeast and benefitting from the cool westerly wind. The wine was fermented in stainless steel with French and American oak staves. It was then matured a further six months in old oak barrels.
SOUTH AFRICA WINE CONCEPTS
Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinotage, Petit Verdot Coconut, red fruits, cumin Ripe fruits, youthful, juicy finish 18° C 2015-2018, M7 D9 Slow-roasted pork belly
Cabernet Sauvignon Herbal thyme, red cherries Red fruits, cranberry finish 18° C 2015-2017, M8 D9 Oven-roasted rack of lamb with garlic creamed potatoes, baby carrots, fine beans and salsa verde
SASKATCHEWAN
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New Zealand
7825 $31.33
$188.00
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Tua Tua Bay Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough, 2014 The Marlborough region, at the north eastern tip of the South Island in New Zealand, is large and varied. 60% of New Zealand’s vineyards are cultivated there on a range of soils along the Wairau and Awatere valleys. The first commercial vineyard was only planted in the early 1970s and since, Marlborough has become an international benchmark for quality Sauvignon Blanc. In the boom years, vineyards were planted frantically, sometimes on inappropriate plots too cold and too arid for the grapes to ripen fully; site selection is all important. The Tua Tua Bay Sauvignon Blanc comes from Wiffen North and Wiffen Omaka blocks on well-drained, old riverbed gravelly soils with calcareous loam deposits. The 2014 is very pale in colour with a greenish hue. Appealing aromas of elderflower, grapefruit blossom and lime jelly are complemented with elegant structure on the palate. A touch of residual sweetness is balanced by the natural acidity ending on limey notes.
OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 228
Manuka Hill Estate Waitakere City, North Island
Sauvignon Blanc Lime jelly, elderflowers Floral, lime, other citrus, [01] 6° C 2015-2016, M9 D9 Oysters with cucumber salad
NEW ZEALAND MANUKA HILL ESTATE >>
The Fredatovich family started growing grapes on the North Island around Auckland in the 1930s and has been producing wine at the winery in Henderson for 70 years. Today, it works closely with like-minded growers further afield in Marlborough and Central Otago on the South Island to source quality grapes. Winemaker Lee Winston makes wines that are a true expression of their terroir and grape variety.
Pinot Noir grapes ready to be harvested in Alexandra, Central Otago, during the sublime 2013 vintage
7826 $31.33
$188.00
Tua Tua Bay Pinot Gris, Marlborough, 2014 Pinot Gris vines are cultivated in the Lower Wairau subregion of Marlborough producing a wine with aromas of fresh apples, pears, honey, spice and a touch of quince. Soils in the Marlborough region are extremely varied and water a scarce resource. The Tua Tua Bay Pinot Gris comes from a vineyard near Grovetown that is planted on deep silty loam soils not requiring irrigation. The grapes were picked and crushed in Marlborough and the chilled juice then transported to the winery in Henderson where winemaker Lee Winston works his magic.
NEW ZEALAND MANUKA HILL ESTATE >>
Pinot Gris Fresh apples, honey, spice Soft, touch of sweetness, [02] 6° C 2015-2016, M8 D9 Crunchy prawn dumplings
SASKATCHEWAN
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7827 $31.83
$191.00
7828 $38.83
$233.00
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Tua Tua Bay Gewurztraminer, Marlborough, 2014 Fans of this grape variety will not be disappointed with the Tua Tua Bay Gewurztraminer from Marlborough. With the same elegant style that is the hallmark of Manuka Hill Estate wines, the grapes were harvested on March 19th before the Pinot Gris or the Sauvignon Blanc. Spring and summer in 2014 were fine with good fruit-set so that crop thinning in the vineyard was carried out. Fortunately, Manuka Hill Estate had harvested all its white grape varieties, which were safely fermenting in tank, when Cyclone Ita hit dropping so much rain that the monthly rainfall for April was 288% up on the long term average. There were still a lot of unpicked grapes so wine quality across the Marlborough region will be quite varied in 2014. The Tua Tua Bay Gewurztraminer 2014 has floral aromas with soft rose petals and Turkish Delight flavours, and a sweetness that is balanced with the natural acidity.
Tua Tua Bay Reserve Pinot Noir, Central Otago, 2013 The climate in Central Otago, where the world’s most southerly vineyards are located, is perfect for Pinot Noir. For the Tua Tua Bay, Pinot Noir vines are planted at McArthur Ridge on light, gravelly, fast-draining soils. The Pinot Noir clones Abel (claimed to have come from Burgundy’s Romanée-Conti), 667 and 115, were planted on a variety of rootstocks between 2003 and 2005. The world’s best Pinot Noir wines are usually made from a blend of clones; the Pinot Noir grape is genetically unstable and prone to mutations, so there are more clones of Pinot Noir than of any other wine grape variety. The clones picked between April 20th and May 10th, 2013 were fermented separately using traditional Burgundian techniques in open-top concrete fermenters with twice daily plunging down. After pressing, the wine was matured for 12 months in French oak barrels. Anyone who enjoys fine Burgundy will enjoy the delicious wild strawberry and raspberry varietal aromas of Pinot Noir which are enhanced by the vanilla and incense flavours from maturation in oak. Light to medium-bodied, it is perfect for drinking over the next three years.
OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 228
Gewurztraminer Turkish Delight, rose petal Sweet fruits, floral, supple, elegant acidity, [02] 6° C 2015-2016, M8 D9 Bahn Thai crab wontons
Pinot Noir Intense, red berries, wild strawberries, vanilla Incense, spicy, red fruits 16° C 2015-2017, M8 D8 Stuffed lamb roast served with carrots and fennel
Hand-harvesting allows for quality check in the vineyard and delicate handling of the grape clusters so that they arrive at the winery intact.
NEW ZEALAND MANUKA HILL ESTATE
Australia
Berton Vineyards Yenda, New South Wales Berton Vineyards has grown since its humble beginnings when Bob Berton planted his first vineyard high up in the Eden Valley in the 1990s, but Bob remains a Crocodile Dundee-type character who just wants to make bloody good wine! The Berton Vineyards winery, purchased in 2005, lies 750 kilometres away from the original plantation in the Eden Valley. The winery was established in 1945 and was closely linked to the development of the Riverina viticultural area; it was previously owned by the Southcorp group. Berton Vineyards has invested in and updated the facilities, and makes wines often using local Riverina fruit with cooler climate grapes to produce flavoursome, great value wines.
2014 produced aromatic whites with fresh fruit flavours and strong varietal characteristics.
AUSTRALIA BERTON VINEYARDS >>
SASKATCHEWAN
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These red droplets are the result of juice being pumped-over to prevent the “cap” (grape skins which have risen to the top) from drying out. This process also enhances colour, tannin and flavor extraction.
7829 $18.67
$112.00
7830 $18.67
$112.00
7831 $18.67
$112.00
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Foundstone Unoaked Chardonnay, South Eastern Australia, 2014 The Foundstone Unoaked Chardonnay is an appealing, fruity wine with aromas of honeydew melon, lemons and a hint of spice. Refreshing on the palate, it has tropical fruit flavours and a nice lemony finish. Foundstone is the first label released by Berton Vineyards and the Chardonnay grapes are selected from the same vineyards in the Riverina, Alpine Valleys, Padthaway and Swan Hill regions as were the original wines.
Foundstone Semillon Sauvignon Blanc, South Eastern Australia, 2014 Pale in colour, it is fragrant with aromas of white peaches and cassis. A wine that tastes a cut above its price, the palate is structured and crisp with a fresh lime, zesty finish. The majority of the grapes were cultivated in the Padthaway region in the Limestone Coast with less than 1% from the Swan Hill region, both in Victoria. In 2014, Padthaway enjoyed a cool, slow-ripening period producing aromatic, high quality grapes. The balance of the grapes came from the warmer Riverina region in the state of New South Wales.
Foundstone Pinot Grigio, South Eastern Australia, 2014 A light, elegant wine, very pale in colour, white blossom and white stone fruit aromas are complemented by mineral notes. On the palate it has flavours of fresh lemons and limes with a slightly sour limey twist. Pinot Grigio grapes were harvested from the Riverina where the warm and dry spring and summer led to early picking. The Riverina region was pioneered in the early 20th century with the development of the Murrumbidgee Irrigation Scheme without which it would be impossible to grow quality grapes.
OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 228
Chardonnay Melons, apples, spice Tropical fruits, lemon citrus finish, [01] 6° C 2015-2016, M8 D9 Cauliflower, pancetta and roasted tomato risotto with scallops and lemon butter
Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc Aromatic, white peaches, cassis Structured, crisp finish, [00] 6° C 2015-2016, M9 D9 Tempura zucchini flowers
Pinot Grigio White stone fruits, mineral Lemon, sour limey twist, [00] 6° C 2015-2016, M9 D9 Grilled miso-marinated white sea bass with flavour-infused rice
AUSTRALIA BERTON VINEYARDS >>
7832 $18.67
$112.00
7833 $18.67
$112.00
7834 $33.17
$199.00
7835 $33.17
$199.00
Foundstone Chardonnay Viognier, South Eastern Australia, 2014 For those that enjoy oaky wines, the Foundstone Chardonnay Viognier will go down a treat. The aroma is marked by a toasted, vanilla characteristic behind which lie ripe tropical fruits. The palate, with flavours of passion fruit and vanilla, is rich and sweet with good acidity. Produced from a blend of 67.5% Chardonnay and 30% Viognier with a smidgen of Chenin Blanc grown in the Riverina and Swan Hill regions, the wine was fermented with some French oak.
Foundstone Merlot, South Eastern Australia, 2013 Restrained fruit aromas of blueberries and blackberries lead to a soft, supple palate. This wine is juicy, succulent and soft with nice dark fruit flavours. Merlot grown in the Alpine Valleys region, nestled in the foothills of the Victorian Alps, was cultivated at altitude in a cool climate with relatively high rainfall. This adds a certain restraint and elegance to the Foundstone Merlot which includes grapes sourced from warmer vineyards in Riverina and Murray-Darling, regions that depend heavily on irrigation.
Berton Vineyard Reserve Shiraz, Barossa, 2012 The Berton Vineyard Reserve Shiraz Barossa 2012 had such an intense aroma of black pepper at the time of tasting that I found myself having to go to the kitchen cupboard to get out the pepper mill and compare. Freshly milled black peppercorn aromas combine with dark fruits and black cherries. The wine has lovely texture with finesse and a cherry, vanilla finish. It was aged in oak barrels and some on French oak staves from a mixture of coopers and medium-toasted oak. Warm daytime temperatures, fertile soils and minimal water are the essential factors that make Barossa the benchmark for Shiraz in Australia.
Berton Vineyard Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Coonawarra, 2010 Coonawarra, famous for its Terra Rossa soils and cool climate, produces some of Australia’s best Cabernet Sauvignon. The maritime influence means that winters are cold, wet and windy and during the growing season night time temperatures are also cool. Cabernet Sauvignon seems to thrive in these adverse conditions. The Berton Vineyard Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2010 is smooth with a developed bouquet, blackcurrants, green peppers, vanilla, floral, giving length and structure. Winter rains in 2009 set the scene for a good vintage in 2010. November experienced a heatwave during flowering in the vineyards which naturally reduced crop levels. An early vintage, the Cabernet Sauvignon was picked on March 31st just before the rains.
AUSTRALIA BERTON VINEYARDS
Chardonnay, Viognier, Chenin Blanc Spicy oak, tropical fruits Soft, round structure, passion fruit, [02] 6° C 2015-2016, M8 D9 Fettuccine carbonara with butter-poached lobster
Merlot Restrained forest fruits, blueberries Supple, dark fruit flavours 18° C 2015-2016, M8 D9 Pork tenderloin medallions with blueberry barbeque sauce
Shiraz Black peppercorns, dark fruits Soft, elegant, cherries, black pepper, vanilla 18° C 2015-2020, M6 D9 Pepper-crusted fillet with port-cherry reduction and blue cheese-chive butter
Cabernet Sauvignon Blackcurrants, green peppers, floral Smooth palate, succulent fruits 18° C 2015-2017, M8 D8 Sausage and mushroom ragù with parmesan polenta
SASKATCHEWAN
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Hastwell & Lightfoot Vineyards McLaren Vale
Hastwell & Lightfoot Vineyards in McLaren Vale cultivates 40 acres of vineyards and three acres of olive groves. In addition to the usual suspects namely Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay, Hastwell & Lightfoot has a keen interest in less obvious choices and has planted Tempranillo, Vermentino and Barbera to name but three. The quartet of friends that planted the first vineyard in 1988, Martin and Jill Lightfoot and Mark and Wendy Hastwell, has since expanded to become a septet including winemaker James Hastwell, Trinity Hastwell, in her administrative and financial role, and Martin’s nephew viticulturalist Richard McGeachy, ensuring the continuity of this collective enterprise.
Sulphur Crested Cockatoos at the Hastwell & Lightfoot Home Block.
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OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 228
AUSTRALIA HASTWELL & LIGHTFOOT VINEYARDS >>
7836 $22.92
$275.00
7837 $22.92
$275.00
7838 $22.92
$275.00
Fat’N Skinny Winemaker’s Blend, McLaren Vale, 2014
Vermentino, Chardonnay, Viognier
Produced from a blend of Vermentino, Chardonnay and Viognier, the 2014 Fat’N Skinny Winemaker’s Blend is quite restrained on the nose with subtle aromas of stone fruits, pears and almonds. More peachy flavours shine through on the palate with soft balanced acidity and a citrus finish. Each component was fermented separately in tank with the Chardonnay and Viognier aged on lees to contribute softness and structure. The naturally higher acidity of the Vermentino grape brings zestiness to the final wine.
Stone fruits, pears, almonds
Fat’N Skinny Forgotten Rosé, McLaren Vale, 2014
Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Tempranillo, Vermentino
Produced from a blend of mainly Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon and Tempranillo, a small amount of Vermentino was added for additional lift. The wine is medium pink in colour with red berries and cranberry flavours, and a broad structure. The grapes were picked and the free-run juice from the crusher fermented in stainless steel tanks at low temperature. This is a more serious style of rosé that will pair well with food.
Fat’N Skinny Picker’s Choice, McLaren Vale, 2013 A really interesting blend of varieties, Cabernet Sauvignon (49%), Shiraz (20%), Tempranillo (16%), Cabernet Franc (9%) and Viognier (6%), results in a wine with complexity and depth. Dense with a deep plum purple colour, there are earthy aromas with raisined fruits, Christmas cake, kirsch and a hint of leather. The wine is rich and smooth and was aged in a range of oak from different cooperages, predominantly American, for 16 months.
Peaches, citrus finish, [00] 6° C 2015-2016, M8 D9 Almond-and-lemon crusted halibut with spinach
Red fruits Raspberry and cranberry finish, [00] 6° C 2015-2016, M9 D9 Red pepper quiche
Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Tempranillo, Cabernet Franc, Viognier Raisins, Christmas cake, hint leather Succulent, smooth palate, kirsch, dark berries 18° C 2015-2019, M6 D9 Spice-roasted venison chops, chanterelles and blackberries
7839 $30.00
$180.00
Hastwell & Lightfoot Vermentino, McLaren Vale, 2014 A very elegant wine with stone fruit aromas, peaches and apricots are complemented by a hint of honey and lemon. In 2012, Vermentino was grafted onto the original vines planted by Hastwell & Lightfoot in 1988. 2014 was not an easy year with temperatures over 44°C for four days at the start of harvest. Miraculously, a subsequent drop in temperature and a light sprinkle of rain allowed the grapes to ripen fully and harvest took place on March 6th. The juice was left in contact with the skins for a short four hours and then cool-fermented producing a wine deliciously fresh with lots of finesse.
AUSTRALIA HASTWELL & LIGHTFOOT VINEYARDS >>
Vermentino White stone fruits, hint of honey, lemon Soft mid-palate, citrus, [00] 6° C 2015-2016, M8 D9 Lemon risotto with summer squash, zucchini and seared scallops
SASKATCHEWAN
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Martin Lightfoot and his team ready to harvest the Vermentino grapes.
7840 $34.17
$205.00
7841 $35.50
$213.00
20
Hastwell & Lightfoot Cabernet Franc, McLaren Vale, 2012 Coming from a one acre block that is part of the original vineyard planted in 1988, Cabernet Franc is planted on the north side of the McLaren Vale hills. Sandy top soils between 35 and 60 centimetres deep lie on top of clay. The Cabernet Franc 2012 has an intensely spicy and floral aroma with smoke and leaf characteristics. This is quite a savoury, rustic style with herb and earthy flavours, and some chewy tannin on the finish. Picked on March 15th, the grapes were fermented in open-top containers and then aged for 20 months in oak using a combination of American hogsheads, and French and American oak staves.
Hastwell & Lightfoot Sands of Time Shiraz, Single Vineyard, McLaren Vale, 2012 The best out of the five blocks of Shiraz that Hastwell and Lightfoot farm are selected to make Sands of Time, named after the sand dunes that have built up over 10,000 years. While the vineyard lies 10 kilometres from the sea, prevailing westerlies have blown mantles of sand into the valleys. The 2012 is mellow with cooked dark fruits, vanilla and smoke aromas. Soft and juicy on the palate, it has a long, bitter cherry finish. Drinking deliciously now, it will continue to mature over the coming years. It was aged for 18 months in American hogsheads, 25% new.
OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 228
Cabernet Franc Floral, leaf, smoke Herbal, fruits, some rusticity 18° C 2015-2018, M7 D7 Turkey drumsticks braised in red wine served on creamy polenta
Shiraz Mellow, vanilla, cooked dark fruits Bitter cherry, juicy, smoke 18° C 2015-2019, M6 D8 Braised lamb shank with cherry-infused lamb jus, whipped mash potatoes and baby carrots
AUSTRALIA HASTWELL & LIGHTFOOT VINEYARDS
Shottesbrooke Vineyards McLaren Vale
Shottesbrooke Vineyards in McLaren Vale was established over 30 years ago by Nick Holmes. The estate is only six kilometres distance from Hastwell & Lightfoot Vineyards, both were established around the same time, but both have their own house style. Hamish Maguire makes big, bold red wines and also sources grapes from Adelaide Hills to produce more elegant white wines. Shottesbrooke’s vineyards lie on a wide range of soils and are tended to by viticulturalist Jodie Armstrong.
A view of the Shottesbrooke Cabernet Sauvignon vineyards during winter, 2014
AUSTRALIA SHOTTESBROOKE VINEYARDS >>
SASKATCHEWAN
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The Shottesbrooke 1964 Bedford truck is still started up every harvest and is used to truck the stalks leftover from the crushing of the grapes.
7843 $28.83
$173.00
7844 $30.33
$182.00
22
Shottesbrooke Estate Series Sauvignon Blanc, Adelaide Hills, 2014 A fragrant, floral style of Sauvignon Blanc with lychees and rose petal aromas, it is crisp on the palate with fine lemony and tropical fruit flavours. 100% Sauvignon Blanc, the grapes were sourced from carefully selected sites in Adelaide Hills. The late-flowering of the Sauvignon Blanc variety meant that fruit set occurred after the wet and windy conditions that affected other varieties in the region.
Shottesbrooke Estate Series Shiraz, McLaren Vale, 2012 The Shottesbrooke Estate Series Shiraz has a cooked dark fruits, raisins and vanilla perfume. The 2012 vintage in McLaren Vale is characterized by low yields and outstanding quality. Shiraz grapes from several plots in McLaren Vale were used with grapes de-stemmed, crushed and then fermented for several days at 20°C to 22°C. Maturation in American and French hogsheads has produced a wine with bitter cherry flavours and soft, velvety tannins balanced with marked acidity.
OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 228
Sauvignon Blanc Elegant, lychees, rose petals Crisp, floral, lemony finish, [01] 6° C 2015-2016, M8 D9 Chicken paillards with baby artichoke, garlic and lemon
Shiraz Cooked dark fruits, vanilla, raisins Bitter cherries, jammy fruits, soft 18° C 2015-2018, M7 D9 Black angus beef tenderloin with truffles pommes Dauphine, sautéed garden vegetables, and rosemary sauce
AUSTRALIA SHOTTESBROOKE VINEYARDS >>
7845 $30.33
$182.00
7846 $33.33
$200.00
Shottesbrooke Estate Series Cabernet Sauvignon, McLaren Vale, 2012 2012 was a good year all round, but the Shottesbrooke Estate Series Cabernet Sauvignon was the star of the show for me in the tasting done while compiling this cellar offering. Perfect ripening conditions throughout February and March for the Reynell Clone Cabernet Sauvignon have produced a wine with herbal notes, Parma violets, vanilla and a hint of black pepper. The palate is rich and structured with blackcurrant fruit and a mineral finish. There is less of the raisin characteristic found in the Shiraz with a purity of fruit and judicious use of French and American oak to provide length of flavour and structure. Part of the blend was in oak for 16 months.
Shottesbrooke Single Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, McLaren Vale, 2012 The Single Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon comes from a 2.7 acre block known as the Home Block planted in 1985 with Reynell Cabernet Sauvignon. Reynell Cabernet Sauvignon is actually a selection of clones traceable to McLaren Vale’s Reynella Winery planted in the 1840s. These vines tend to produce low yields of very high quality grapes. Shottesbrooke’s Home Block lies on alluvial soils and the grapes consistently ripen well. This wine has a complex, earthy, fruit bouquet. Soft, smooth and medium-bodied, it has fine texture with less obvious fruit and more depth than the Estate Series Cabernet Sauvignon. It was aged in two to four year old hogsheads.
AUSTRALIA SHOTTESBROOKE VINEYARDS
Cabernet Sauvignon Parma violets, herbs, hint of black pepper Structured, herbal flavours, mineral finish 18° C 2015-2019, M6 D9 Aubergine, tomato and mushroom bake
Cabernet Sauvignon Earthy Black cherries, fine texture, great depth 18° C 2015-2020, M6 D9 Pappardelle with wild hare ragù
SASKATCHEWAN
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It is 10 years since Geoff Hardy was first selected by Opimian. He developed the GMH range of wines especially for Opimian members offering varietal wines at great prices. For those wanting something special and for cellaring, the K1 wines from Adelaide Hills are flavoursome, complex and have the potential to mature. Geoff lives and breathes viticulture and wine. Part of the fifth generation of the famous Hardy winemaking dynasty, Geoff studied winemaking at Roseworthy College. He bought his first vineyard, Pertaringa, in 1980 with then partner Ian Leask, and subsequently planted the Kuitpo, Wirrega and Angas vineyards. Geoff’s daughter Bec is also passionate about wine and together with her husband Richard Dolan they make a formidable and dynamic trio.
Geoff Hardy Wines Kuitpo, South Australia Young Sebastian Hardy represents the Hand-Crafted by Geoff Hardy range in Australia. Geoff Hardy, center-left, continues his work in the vineyards and oversees the winemaking. Richard Dolan fills the role of General Manager while Bec Hardy looks after sales and marketing.
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OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 228
AUSTRALIA GEOFF HARDY WINES >>
7847 $37.33
$224.00
7848 $36.17
$217.00
7849 $39.67
$238.00
7850 $36.17
$217.00
Pertaringa “Understudy” Cabernet Sauvignon, McLaren Vale, 2013 The “Understudy” Cabernet Sauvignon 2013 has a distinct cassis and mineral slate aroma. The McLaren Vale region lies just 35 kilometres south of the city of Adelaide, with Pertaringa vineyards in the foothills behind McLaren Vale; indeed the name Pertaringa means “belonging to the hills” in the indigenous language. This was Geoff’s first proprietary vineyard established over 30 years ago with his then partner Ian Leask. The wines, now made by Shane Harris, are produced from parcels of hand-selected premium grapes. 2013 was a warm and dry growing season producing a wine with good structure and fine tannins. It is concentrated and at the same time has great elegance and depth of flavour. It is a softer, more approachable Cabernet Sauvignon than the K1 by Geoff Hardy Cabernet Sauvignon 2012, but also has the potential to develop nicely.
K1 by Geoff Hardy Sauvignon Blanc, Adelaide Hills, 2014 Intensely aromatic, it has green fruits, limes, nettles and elderflower. Fresh lemon, grapefruit and lime flavours linger on the palate with firm acidity on the finish. Despite a challenging year in terms of climate, the K1 by Geoff Hardy Sauvignon Blanc is a great success. Cool, wet and windy conditions during flowering reduced crops by about 40% at Kuitpo, up to 80% for other growers in more exposed areas of Adelaide Hills. Sauvignon Blanc vines are planted on sandy loam soils within the K1 estate. The late heatwave in January was too early to do harm and the rains later in February gave some relief to the Sauvignon Blanc vines. The Indian summer that ensued ensured everything ripened fully and the Sauvignon Blanc developed all its aromatics. Yields are kept low through pruning the single cordon to a low bud count.
K1 by Geoff Hardy Chardonnay, Adelaide Hills, 2012 If you have been enjoying the K1 by Geoff Hardy Chardonnay 2010 from Cellar Offering 212 and are running low on supplies, now is the time to stock up with the 2012. It was a dream vintage in terms of quality and the K1 by Geoff Hardy Chardonnay 2012 tastes really good with toasty, buttery, vanilla and pineapple flavours. 2012 was a high quality vintage with a dry season and excellent conditions during ripening. The grapes were hand-picked mid-March and the juice 100% barrelfermented. The wine was matured for 16 months in French oak, 60% new.
K1 by Geoff Hardy Middle Hill Shiraz, Adelaide Hills, 2013 As the name suggests, the Shiraz vines are cultivated on the middle hill of the K1 vineyard, a sandstone ridge which produces elegant Shiraz wines. The 2013 was still in barrel at the time of tasting and showed ripe dark fruits, blackberries and mulberries. Shiraz was co-fermented with a small proportion (6%) of Viognier adding softness and texture. The wine will be matured for a total of 20 months in oak with 80% French and 20% American. Despite the use of 15% new oak the focus is really on fruit; the wine has a fine, silky texture.
AUSTRALIA GEOFF HARDY WINES >>
Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Malbec Cassis, slate Concentrated, elegant structure 18° C 2015-2020, M6 D8 Braised shoulder of lamb with garlic confit and autumn vegetables
Sauvignon Blanc Intense aromas, elderflower, nettles, green fruits Fresh lemon and lime flavours which linger on the palate, [00] 6° C 2015-2017, M8 D8 Salmon with lemon tarragon and asparagus
Chardonnay Rich, toasty, buttery notes, vanilla, pineapple Rich, complex, balanced acidity, [00] 8° C 2015-2018, M7 D9 Creamy seafood stew
Shiraz, Viognier Ripe dark fruits Good mid-palate fruit, juicy, perfect balance 18° C 2015-2019, M6 D7 Veal osso buco over potato mash
SASKATCHEWAN
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7851 $39.67
$238.00
7852 $39.67
$238.00
7853 $23.25
$279.00
7854 $23.17
$278.00
26
K1 by Geoff Hardy Pinot Noir, Adelaide Hills, 2012 The cool climate of Adelaide Hills has long been recognized as producing some of the best Pinot Noir that Australia has to offer. The K1 by Geoff Hardy Pinot Noir 2012 has an earthy bouquet with wild strawberries and vanilla. Aged in French oak, 30% new, the wine has a silky texture and light structure with marked acidity and a long finish. Like most great Pinot Noirs it is produced from a blend of clones planted on the K1 estate namely D5V12, D4V2 and Mariafeld. The grapes were hand-picked midMarch 2012 and followed a traditional vinification.
K1 by Geoff Hardy Cabernet Sauvignon, Adelaide Hills, 2012 An intense, concentrated and dense wine, it is produced from the low yield, high quality 2012 vintage; this is a wine worth tucking away for a while. Aromas of smoke, tar and creosote dominate the rich, dark, blackcurrant fruits that are in the background at the moment. On the palate the wine is dense and full-bodied with firm tannins; it has depth ending on a mineral note with some chewiness. The K1 by Geoff Hardy Cabernet Sauvignon should be drinking fine in a year or two and for many years after that. It was matured for 20 months in oak with 80% French barrels and 20% American hogsheads, 40% new.
GMH White Meritage, South Australia, 2014 The GMH wines are named after Geoff and are his initials — Geoffrey Michael Hardy. These are handcrafted wines made for Opimian members. The White Meritage offers great value. Meritage refers to wines produced using a blend of traditional Bordeaux grape varieties, in this case, a blend of 55% Semillon and 45% Sauvignon Blanc. It has an elegant floral perfume with pear drop aromas. Extremely palatable, dry with flavours of stone fruits, fresh apples and lemons, it is soft and refreshing. The wine was slowly fermented at cool temperature in stainless steel tanks and is bottled early to capture its youth.
GMH Meritage, South Australia, 2012 A savoury wine with aromas of dark fruits, green leaves, cedar and smoke, it is a blend of Petit Verdot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot coming from Geoff’s vineyards across South Australia’s Limestone Coast, Adelaide Hills and McLaren Vale. A soft attack on the palate evolves into a firm, linear structure, perhaps the contribution of the Petit Verdot which always provides fresh acidity. Unusually, Petit Verdot is the dominant grape in the blend representing 45%. Cranberry and herbal flavours lead to a firm finish. The grapes underwent a traditional fermentation in open-top vessels followed by maturation in French and American oak with minimal intervention.
OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 228
Pinot Noir Wild strawberries, earthy fruits Complex, wild fruits, soft, long finish 16° C 2015-2017, M8 D9 Quail and porcini ballotine with lentil salsa
Cabernet Sauvignon Smoke, tar, dark fruits Rich, dense, mineral finish, firm tannins 18° C 2015-2020, M6 D7 Grilled grain-fed beef tenderloin served with king oyster mushrooms and glazed turnip and marjoram
Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc Floral, pear drops Stone fruits, fresh apples, lemon citrus, [00] 6° C 2015-2016, M8 D9 Crushed avocados and prawn salad
Petit Verdot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot Dark fruits, smoke, leaf Cedar, dark fruits, fresh acidity 18° C 2015-2019, M6 D8 Braised short ribs with wild mushrooms over parsnip purée
AUSTRALIA GEOFF HARDY WINES >>
7855 $20.33
$244.00
7856 $23.17
$278.00
GMH Pinot Noir, Adelaide Hills, 2013 Pinot Noir is not an easy grape to grow. It is not often that lower-priced Pinot Noirs really capture the essence and flavour of the grape. Don’t get me wrong, that’s not to say they are bad wines just that they do not always fully express themselves in the way that the GMH Pinot Noir 2013 does. Ripe berries, wild strawberries, raspberries and vanilla aromas are all clambering to jump out of the glass. The wine has bags of appeal; it is succulent on the palate with some structure and layered complexity. It ends leaving the mouth full of fresh berry flavours. Well done Geoff and Shane! Produced from Pinot Noir grown in the Adelaide Hills that didn’t quite make it into the K1 by Geoff Hardy Pinot Noir and from younger vines planted in 2008, the wine was matured in French and American oak.
GMH Shiraz, South Australia, 2013 Shiraz grown on Geoff’s Wirrega Vineyard in the Bordertown region of the Limestone Coast was combined with Shiraz from McLaren Vale. Intense, deep purple in colour, the wine has woody characteristics with black cherries, dark fruits, creosote and tar. Concentrated and quite firm on the palate with a bitter chocolate and cherry finish, it will benefit from some bottle maturation. The McLaren Vale portion was aged in a range of old oak barrels for 10 months and then combined with the Limestone Coast wine with the two harmonizing perfectly.
7857
GMH Cabernet Sauvignon, South Australia, 2013
$23.17
Dark fruits mingle with leafy green aromas with similar herbal, minty flavours lingering on the palate. The GMH Cabernet Sauvignon 2013 is structured with marked acidity and some ripe, but firm tannin. A great wine to pair with a juicy steak, it is youthful with the potential for cellaring.
$278.00
Pinot Noir Wild strawberries, vanilla, raspberries Succulent berry flavours 16° C 2015-2017, M8 D9 Planked salmon with Pinot Noirblackberry sauce
Shiraz Dark fruits, black cherries, tar Smoky fruits, woody notes 18° C 2015-2018, M7 D7 Chorizo, pork belly and chickpea casserole
Cabernet Sauvignon Leafy, black fruits Herbal, lingering forest fruits 18° C 2015-2020, M6 D7 New York strip steak with herb butter
Autumn at K1
AUSTRALIA GEOFF HARDY WINES
SASKATCHEWAN
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OUR COUPON PROGRAMS
Refer a new member, and upon
joining, both you and the new member will receive a coupon for one of two great rewards
YOUR COUPON GIVES YOU OPTIONS! 1. Order a case of wine & choose your free case from the free case choices for this Cellar Offering: Lot 7814 (See Lot 7810 on page 7) Lot 7815 (See Lot 7811 on page 7)
OUR WINE PROGRAMS OPIMIAN SELECT Taste the World!
Only Opimian gives you access to exclusive cellars from around the world. A successful innovation catered to New Members and those who are still uncertain of what to order, the Opimian Select program allows you to try a minimum of 24 wines – from every day sippers to a gourmet dinner partner – at a fixed price of $106. Sign up for Opimian Select and receive a mixed case from every Cellar Offering regardless of whether you are away, on holidays or simply forgot to place your order. Develop your palate, taste the classics from each region, discover new varietals and experience what our suppliers have to offer! Application forms are available for download at opim.ca under “Downloads”. THE SELECTION Opimian Select includes a case (6 bottles) of three to six different wines from a featured supplier on each Cellar Offering. Mostly reds with the occasional white or rosé, these wines showcase the variety of styles available through Opimian - if you happen to find a favourite wine, make note of the supplier for future Cellar Offerings! To browse past selections and tasting notes, sign in at opim.ca and click on “Opimian Select” in the left hand column. View details by clicking on each wine name or supplier.
“Opimian Select is an educational experience and, as any wine lover knows, it is essential and fun to continuously try new things.”
~ David Lawrason, Toronto Life
OR 2. Order two cases of wine & receive $75 off your order
opim.ca OR
800-361-9421
“Opimian’s philosophy is to create bonds between people through wine.”
~ Roberto Echeverría, Opimian Supplier
FOUNDERS’ CHOICE Cherish the Experience! The premium wine experience – only with Opimian!
Established in recognition of Opimian’s founders, this program offers premium wines from our most cherished suppliers – at a fixed price of $187. Each wine is specifically selected to dedicate to the spirit of Opimian. Some are hidden jewels discovered in a cellar by our Master of Wine; others are specially crafted by our suppliers with the Founders’ Choice program in mind. Application forms are available for download at opim.ca under “Downloads”. THE WINES Sign up for Founders’ Choice and receive a case (6 bottles) of premium wine from every Cellar Offering that is ready to drink and has great cellaring ability. Each wine comes with a dedicated back label and a personal message from the supplier detailing why they chose to share with us this one-of-a-kind wine. These wines are not, and will never be, on any Cellar Offering and can only be received by signing up for this program. To browse past selections and tasting notes, sign in at opim.ca and click on “Founders’ Choice” in the left hand column. Hastwell & Lightfoot Vineyards is the Founders’ Choice feature supplier on this Cellar Offering.
#420 - 5165 Sherbrooke West, Montreal, QC, H4A 1T6 T: 514-483-5551 or 800-361-9421 F: 514-481-9699 opim@opim.ca www.opim.ca