Eikendal Bordeaux-style flagship excels in Berlin

The latest 2005 vintage of this elegant blend which proudly wears the crown as the estate's flagship red wine, clinched a prestigious Premium Berlin Gold medal at this year's judging. The Cabernet driven Classique is one of only five South African wines to be awarded this sought after, Premium Gold medal this year.

In addition, Eikendal also scooped a silver medal for its Sauvignon Blanc 2008 at this annual contest - one of the largest international competitions under the patronage of International Organisation of Vine and Wine (IOV) - held in the capital city of Berlin.

“I'm so delighted to see that our flagship is making waves beyond our borders. The results also show that we as a country unashamedly can compete against the best international standards,” says Eikendal Cellarmaster Henry Kotzé.

Described by the winemaker as a ‘wine that personifies what Eikendal is all about' the Classique 2005 is a sensual yet substantial wine that unfolds a layered berry bouquet harmoniously backed by an integrated oak character. Juicy ripe black fruit, infused with spicy, peppery flavours coat the palate with hints of truffle and earthy herbaceous influences pointing to a strong Cabernet Sauvignon presence.

With Cabernet Sauvignon stealing the spotlight (73%), the wine also introduces the classical touch of Cabernet franc (27%) which adds gentle fruit layers and finesse to this oak-matured cellar masterpiece.

“Owing to our favourable terroir, fanned by cooling maritime breezes and ideal soil compositions, both red varieties deliver a strong sense of varietal integrity and quality, expressed wonderfully in this full-flavoured wine,” adds Henry.

Both wines spent 18 months in new French oak barrels before they were blended together, after which further maturation continued in older barrels over a six month period. The wine was bottle aged for a year prior to its release.

Alluring with a dark brick red hue, it is a full-bodied, well-structured wine with a long elegant finish lingering on the aftertaste. Fine, silky tannins grip the pallet and provide great potential for further ageing.

Eikendal Classique 2005 is an excellent choice with robust beef, venison and ostrich carpaccio, whilst vegetarians can enjoy this red wine with roasted or grilled vegetables infused with olive oil, garlic and herbs or with a gourmet cheese platter.

The wine is available from R120 per bottle, directly from the cellar or at selected fine wine outlets and restaurants countrywide.

For more information, contact Eikendal at Tel: (+27)21 855 1422 or place your order at .