Stellenbosch Hills has celebrated its 70th anniversary of winemaking with the launch of the unique premium La Serena aperitif.
Made from one of the rarest wine varieties grown in our country, Muscat de Hambourg, La Serena salutes the history and heritage of the winemaking co-operative, as well as its staff, its grapes, and the ‘innovative spirit among our members’ said Stellenbosch Hills Cellar Master PG Slabbert. A limited quantity of 1400 bottles was produced.
Grapes were handpicked in the early morning, and then fermented on the skins in 300 litre open-top barrels for seven days. A seven-year old potstill brandy was added to fortify the juice. The colour is bright pomegranate, while it has nougat and nut flavours, with rose petals. It can be served on crushed ice, as a cocktail, or drunk as an accompaniment to a dessert or a cheese platter. La Serena costs R350.
Stellenbosch Hills, Polkadraai Road, Stellenbosch. Tel (021) 881-3828 www.stellenbosch-hills.co.za Twitter: @STBHills
Chris von Ulmenstein, WhaleTales Blog: www.whalecottage.com/blog Tel 082 55 11 323 Twitter:@WhaleCottage Facebook: click here
