A Distell show piece, this 1 000 ha estate in Simondium, Paarl has earned international acclaim for its white and red wines. Winemaker Niel Bester has the benefit of working with Paul Pontallier of Chateau Margeaux fame in producing classically styled but accessible wines.
The vineyards
Grapes were sourced from vineyards in Simondium. The vines, ranging in from 7 to 22 years old, are situated between 360m and 450m above sea-level on the south-eastern slopes of the Simonsberg.
The winemaking
The grapes were hand-picked at the end of February beginning of March between 22,9° and 25,5° Balling and were fermented at 22°C for seven to eight days.
The wine was matured in a combination of new French oak (65%) and second-fill French oak barrels (35%), allowing it to retain its freshness and young character.
Winemaker’s comments
Winemaker Niel Bester says this light green wine with a straw-yellow tint has pronounced toasted almonds and honey aromas with a combination of caramelised lemons and tropical fruit palate, which is balanced by subtle toasted wood flavours. It is a well-integrated wine with an appealing flavour and a pleasant lingering aftertaste.
He says that this wine can be enjoyed on its own or with fish, white meats and salads.
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Plaisir de Merle
Chardonnay Paarl 2003
Flashy style, with lots of fig, butter, pineapple and brioche
aromas and flavors. Lush palate, with a soft, creamy finish. Could use
a little more zip, but will certainly have fans. Drink now. 700 cases
made. (JM)
Plaisir de Merle
Shiraz Paarl 2003
Ripe blackberry and cassis fruit with racy acidity and a
minerally, smoky finish. Solid. Drink now through 2006. 1,000 cases made.
(JM)
Nederburg 2003 Western
Cape Pinotage
87 Points
Saturated with plum and blueberry fruit, this smooth,
smoky pinotage is soft and relatively light. Pair it with the dark meat
of game birds or turkey.
2005 Nederburg
Sauvignon Blanc, Western Cape
A Best Buy
This wine has a vegetal character, but tropical fruit
flavors are just as dominant. Intense flavors and aromas, lively acidity
and a warm finish make this an ideal match for oily foods. Imported by
Dreyfus, Ashby & Co.
2003 Nederburg
Pinotage
Western Cape
A Best Buy
This ruby-red wine has a lot to offer. It offers vanilla,
spice, Maraschino cherry and cola in the nose, while the palate is packed
with more cherry, vanilla, a mild minerality and some lemon notes. It
finishes smooth, with coffee and spice. Imported by Dreyfus, Ashby &
Co.
2002 Nederburg
Shiraz
Western Cape
A Best Buy
On the nose, plum and juicy berry are joined by cocoa
powder and vanilla. With ir, grilled meat aromas emerge. The palate starts
out a bit sweet with vanilla, but quickly picks up fruit, spice and charred
meat notes. All this in a package that is soft without being simple.
A Distell show piece, this 1 000 ha estate in Simondium, Paarl has earned international acclaim for its white and red wines. Winemaker Niel Bester has the benefit of working with Paul Pontallier of Chateau Margeaux fame in producing classically styled but accessible wines. 
