Fine Wine: New World Wines
Live Virtual Auction, 18 September 2022
New World Wines
Incl. Buyer's Premium & VAT
About this Item
Wedged between the Stellenbosch and Helderberg mountains, situated on the beautiful Mont Fleur farm, is the boutique De Trafford winery. The Trafford family purchased the land in 1976 and a small vineyard was in place by 1983.
Flagship wine, a selection of the best barrels from their home vineyard at 393m above sea level. Instead of a plan of the winery on the label, there is an elevation drawing of the family home in the middle of the vineyard. The aim of the Elevation is to express this remarkable site to the full and accentuate the character of each vintage, rather than a more homogeneous style.
Usually the core of the blend is Cabernet Sauvignon which is in the middle of the vineyard. Followed by Merlot, from the richer clay soil at the bottom of the vineyard and Syrah, at the highest and steepest section. Usually, but not always, they add a little Cabernet Franc which adds a little spice and fine herbaceous character.
Provenance
Wine Cellar Private Client
Critics Ratings
‘Named for altitude of home vineyard, a barrel selection. Blend change in 07, Cabernet-led, with Merlot, Shiraz, Cabernet Franc; gives impression of enormous concentration, layered complexity still tightly held. Least expressive of range mid-2009, needs time.’ – Platter’s SA Wine Guide 2010, 4.5*
‘Mature but lovely, with singed cedar, coffee and loam notes moving to the fore, while the steeped blackberry and black currant fruit melds into the smoky finish. Long and suave, with a gorgeous, smoldering character. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Shiraz and Cabernet Franc.’ - James Molesworth, Wine Spectator, 92/100 (Jun 2013)
Other lots that might interest you
