On the heels of the recent achievements at the Global Chenin Blanc Masters competition, the 2023 SA Terroir Wine Awards, and the Tim Atkin rating, Perdeberg Cellar has done it again. This time at the 2023 Michelangelo International Wine & Spirits Awards. Not only as a Trophy Winner for 2021 The Dry Land Collection Fortitude Fortified Chenin Blanc, but also five Double Golds, six Golds, and two Silver medals.
Consistency and dedication are integral when it comes to crafting excellence in a bottle, which was proven to be the case with the 2021 The Dry Land Collection Fortitude Fortified Chenin Blanc being awarded the Michelangelo International Wine & Spirits Awards Dessert Wine Grand Prix Trophy winner.
Made from dryland cultivated grapes, namely vineyards that receive no irrigation, Fortitude showcases the uniqueness of the Chenin Blanc varietal grown in this terroir using age-old traditions. The grapes for the wines were sourced from old bush vines, planted in the best soils where they would be sustainable, with seasonal rainfall as the only water supply. Without irrigation, the crops weigh less, with smaller bunches and smaller berries that give intense fruit flavour. These grapes are picked by hand. A wine that appeals to enthusiasts who understand and appreciate natural winemaking processes and will enjoy sharing these expressions with others at elegant dinners and special occasions. Cellarmaster Albertus Louw describes this award-winning dessert wine as displaying a deep gold colour with aromas of dried apricots, ripe yellow fruit, and nuances of peach. On the palate flavours of litchi, candied citrus and undertones of honeycomb are prominent. Sip slowly on its own, chilled, or serve with desserts, cheese platters, or butternut soup. Enjoy now or leave to age further for the next five to eight years.
The Double Gold winners were the limited release of Perdeberg’s 80th anniversary namely, 2019 Rex Equus Pioneer’s Blend, as well as 2019 The Dry Land Collection Longevity Natural Sweet Chenin Blanc, 2022 The Vineyard Collection Grenache Noir, and recently launched with new packaging, the classic 2023 Perdeberg Chenin Blanc and 2023 Perdeberg Sauvignon Blanc.
Gold medals were awarded to the iconic 2020 Endura Winemaker’s Selection Cape Blend, 2022 The Dry Land Collection Courageous Barrel Fermented Chenin Blanc, 2020 The Dry Land Collection Joseph’s Legacy, 2020 The Dry Land Collection Tenacious Shiraz, 2023 The Vineyard Collection Pinot Noir Chardonnay and 2022 Natuurlik Organic Chenin Blanc.
The 2023 Lighthearted Chenin Blanc and 2023 The Vineyard Collection Grenache Blanc were each awarded Silver.
For more information on these superb wines visit www.perdeberg.co.za.
