Napier Winery: 'Petite Marie' Rosé 2021
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This delicate salmon-pink rosé wine from the vineyards of Wellington in the Western Cape of South Africa was awarded 'Best in Class' for the 2021 vintage by the SA National Wine Challenge. Made from 100% Cabernet Franc, it has a floral nose with pink grapefruit, guava and rosehip notes that follow through onto the plate. Creamy and with a hint of Szechuan pepper spice, this is very moreish and ideal for 'al fresco' imbibing!
To the north-west of Cape Town, the sleepy town of Wellington sits at the feet of the towering Hawequa mountains that create a unique microclimate. Cooling Atlantic breezes and the benefits of freshness from altitude help retain acidity for the grapes.
'Napier Vineyards' are named after Sir George Napier, who was the governor of the Cape from 1837 to 1843. With 90 hectares of vines, including prime parcels on red 'Tukulu' and ancient 'Vilafontes' soils, planted with diverse international grape varieties, the estate has an enviably broad palette of fruit from which to blend its wines.
Petit Marie Rosé is crafted from hand-selected Cabernet Franc grapes that are harvested early in the morning and protected under carbonic ice before being swiftly pressed. This produces a salmon-coloured wine with soft red berry flavours and a crisp dry finish.
Summers in South Africa are often pretty hot, with temperatures in some areas regularly in the mid- to high 30s (Celsius). Locals will often drink their rosé very well-chilled and often with ice.
| Style | Rose Wine, Sec, Medium-bodied, Non Sparkling |
|---|---|
| Wine Region | South Africa |
| Grape Variety (Cépage) | Cabernet Franc |
| Food & Wine Matching | Chinese Food, Salads, Seafood, Thai Food, White Fish |
| Viticulture | Non-Organic |
| Vintage | 2021 |
| Cellarage | Drink within two years of vintage. |
| Vinification | Fermented at cool temperatures to preserve aromatics and fresh fruit flavours. |
| Alcohol By Volume (%) | 12.5 |
Napier Winery
Located at the foot of the Bains Kloof Pass below the towering Hawequa mountains in the Wellington region of the Western Cape, 'Napier Vineyards' are named after Sir George Napier, who was the governor of the Cape from 1837-1843.
Around 90 ha of vineyards across 3 farms at Napier, Ranzadale and Bassano near Wellington are planted with Chenin Blanc, Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Colombard, Malbec, Merlot, Pinotage and Shiraz. Soils vary from the red fertile 'Tukulu', 'Vilafontes' (one of the oldest soils in the world), plus weathered 'Malmesbury slate' and are mostly north-facing, aiding ripening.
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