THE recently released Quoin Rock White Blend 2018 is South African’s answer to finding that perfect food wine. A blend of Sauvignon Blanc (92%) and Semillon (8%) delivers on excellent ageing potential of up to 10 years.
The grapes harvested from the estate’s vineyards in Stellenbosch, and also from its Elim vineyards which is well-known as a cool climate region and perfectly suited to this wine. The wine was left to mature in a combination of stainless-steel tanks and French oak barrels for six months before bottling. Winemaker Schalk Opperman describes the wine as showcasing flinty, stone-fruit and fig-like aromas from the Sauvignon Blanc, which are complemented by the beautiful tangerine characters of the Semillon. Gooseberry and melon characters contribute to a full, rounded creaminess on the palate. This wine has a persistent body with wonderful length and elegance.
True to Quoin Rock’s philosophy of not only being innovative, but also taking a sustainable approach to food, Gåte’s (pronounced “gahtey”) head chef Jack Coetzee recommends the White Blend with its game fish dish, which is often sourced from the ABALOBI platform. This dish involves taking the fish off the bone and rolling it into a roulade. It is then poached and rolled in popcorn and dried seaweed, which provides texture. The fish is combined with corn and beetroot in its many variations, which ultimately brings the wine to life. The acidity tames the earthy flavours from the beetroot, which lift the beautiful stone fruit flavours of the wine. The wine’s characteristic gooseberry and melon flavours complement the game fish perfectly.
The wine also partners perfectly to other seafood as well as pasta dishes, or simply enjoy on its own. Available directly from the tasting room at R350 per bottle. For more information, click here.
