KEN FORRESTER WINES
(STELLENBOSCH, WESTERN CAPE)
www.kenforresterwines.com
In 1993 the Forrester family came to the rescue, restoring the 17th century homestead, replanting the vines and developing wines of quality. In 1994 the first wines were produced under the Ken Forrester label, and soon the award-winning wines were at the forefront of the Chenin Blanc revival. The grapes are sourced from vineyards - some of them more than 30 years old - in the cool Helderberg region of Stellenbosch. The farming is in the hands of a small highly dedicated team. Ken does all the sales and marketing, travelling around the world promoting South Africa and their great wines, happy to pour any South African wine far from home and carry the flag. It's a tough job, socialising and meeting great people in the relaxed environment of food and wine but someone has to do it! We practice sustainable, organic viticulture, we make our own compost, we grow winter cover crops between the dormant vines, we use ducks to control snails and insects and we manage yields according to the potential of the soils and the vines, we do not believe that stress is a good practice in the vineyards or in life!
Sparklehorse 2016 CSPC# 795074 750mlx6 14.0% alc./vol.
Chemical Analysis Acidity: 5.7 g/l pH: 3.39 Residual Sugar: 3.1 g/l Grape Variety 100% Chenin Blanc Winemaker In 1994, with most of the vineyard planted to Chenin Blanc it was decided to enlist the help of good friend and Top Winemaker, Martin Meinert, with the quest to produce Chenin Blanc that could rival any white wine in the world. Vineyards A carefully selected cool vineyard site allows the grapes to mature while maintaining the all-important refreshing acidity. Age of Vines: Planted in 1975 Soil: Clovelly - (deep yellow sand) Mature unirrigated vineyards with controlled yields. Locality: South-south-west Harvest Yield: Low trellis. Yield: Approx. 4 - 6 tons Vinification Made by the Cap Classique or traditional method, this wine aged for 18 months on less to develop a creaminess and delicate mousse while still maintaining bright, fresh apple, pear and quince aromas. Tasting Notes Ken Forrester Wines has a superb reputation for Chenin Blanc, and this first sparkling wine in the classic tradition is no exception Serve with An ideal bubbly to celebrate with and equally at home with light creamy chicken and fish dishes. Scores/Awards 4 stars - Fiona McDonald, John Platter’s Guide to South African Wines, 2020 87 points - Anthony Mueller, Robertparker.com #245 - October 2019 Reviews “Crisp green-apple vigour to 2016 all-chenin MCC sparkling. Chalky, with good grip, intensity & lees notes from 18 months in bottle. Balanced & dry. Improves on 2015.” - FMcD, John Platter’s Guide to South African Wines
“The 2016 Sparklehorse is 100% sparkling Chenin Blanc with nutty and citrus tones on the nose. Made in the traditional method, this wine spent 14 months on the
lees. With soft flavors of apple, pear and quince yogurt on the palate, the finish is quick and clean, ending with a classic kiss of phenolic bitterness and a freshly-cut- citrus edge. 9,000 bottles of this bubbly were made.” - AM, Robertparker.com
1421-70 Avenue, Edmonton, AB, T6P 1N5 T: 780-462-5358 W: www.lanigan-edwards.com
Petit Chenin Blanc 2019 CSPC# 790303 750mlx12 13.5% alc./vol.
Chemical Analysis Acidity: 6.10 g/l pH: 3.43 Residual Sugar: 4.8 g/l Grape Variety 100% Chenin Blanc Winemaker Ken Forrester Info The Petit Range is mainly from contracted vineyards that we manage from pruning to harvest, specifically sourced to suit a fruit forward profile, to offer soft, market ready, instantly pleasing easy everyday drinking wines. Vineyards Situated on the slopes of the Helderberg Mountain, in the heart of South Africa's most famous wine region Stellenbosch, our vineyards are commonly referred to as the Home of Chenin Blanc and other premium award-winning wines. The farm is 40 hectares and roughly 36 hectares of that is under vine. The following grape varietals are on the farm; Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Merlot, Grenache, Mourvedre, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Soil: Duplex soils, in combination with decompose granite and fine sandy loam on a clay base. Aspect: south-south-west Harvest Hand harvested. Yield: 6 - 8 tons per hectare Vinification Fermented cool, bottled early to show the freshest fruit flavours. Tasting Notes Perfect everyday drinking wine. A youthful fresh wine with quince and pear drop flavours. Earlier picked freshness shows on palate with crunchy green apple and grapefruit flavours. Good mouthfeel and appetizingly tangy finish. Serve with Flavoursome, light al fresco summertime meals. Scores/Awards 3 ½ stars (83 points) - Penny Setti, John Platter’s Guide to South African Wines, 2021 85 points - Aleks Zecevic, Winespectator.com - October 2020 Reviews “Unassuming 2019, lemon, apple & pear flavours with a pleasant lingering finish. For chilled-out light alfresco meals.” - PS, John Platter’s Guide to South African Wines
“Notes of chamomile frame the core of lemon and quince flavors in this light, straightforward style. Drink now. 30,000 cases made.” - AZ, Winespectator.com
Petit Rosé 2019 CSPC# 800308 750mlx12 13.5% alc./vol.
Chemical Analysis Acidity: 5.30 g/l pH: 3.18 Residual Sugar: 4.4 g/l Grape Variety 79% Grenache, 21% Viognier Info The Petit Range is mainly from contracted vineyards that we manage from pruning to harvest, specifically sourced to suit a fruit forward profile, to offer soft, market ready, instantly pleasing easy everyday drinking wines. Vineyards Situated on the slopes of the Helderberg Mountain, in the heart of South Africa's most famous wine region Stellenbosch, our vineyards are commonly referred to as the Home of Chenin Blanc and other premium award-winning wines. The farm is 40 hectares and roughly 36 hectares of that is under vine. Soil: Duplex soils, in combination with decompose granite and fine sandy loam on a clay base. Trellised vineyard. Age of vines: 9 - 11years. Altitude: 100m. Aspect: East-West Facing Harvest The Rosé project is from vineyards dedicated to Rosé, the fruit is hand harvested as if to produce a white wine with high natural acidity, hence no added acid in the cellar. Yield: 9 - 10 tons per hectare Vinification Crushed and pressed, leaving the skins soaking for an hour or two. This infuses the delicate copper salmon colour unique for Grenache and a cold fermentation in stainless tanks ensures an elegant wine. Tasting Notes This very elegant Rosé overwhelms the nose with aromas of freshly picked strawberries, rose petal and cherry flavours. It follows through on the palate with delicious ripe raspberries with a delicate finish. Serve with Serve with all light summertime meals. Scores/Awards 3.5* stars - Fiona McDonald, John Platter’s Guide to South African Wines, 2020 88 points - Aleks Zecevic, Winespectator.com - May 2020 Reviews “Improves on previous in vivacious strawberry & plum tang from grenache & viognier mix. 2019 light bodied, crisp & easy. Ideal for summer.” - FMcD, John Platter’s Guide to South African Wines
“This fruity blush shows notes of cherry and rosewater, with enough acidity for balance. The finish is moderately long and features some spice. A crowd-pleaser. Drink now. 6,000 cases made.” - AZ, Winespectator.com
1421-70 Avenue, Edmonton, AB, T6P 1N5 T: 780-462-5358 W: www.lanigan-edwards.com
Petit Sauvignon Blanc 2019 CSPC# 790304 750mlx12 13.5% alc./vol.
Chemical Analysis Acidity: 6.40 g/l pH: 3.41 Residual Sugar: 2.7 g/l Grape Variety 100% Sauvignon Blanc Winemaker Ken Forrester Info The Petit Range is mainly from contracted vineyards that we manage from pruning to harvest, specifically sourced to suit a fruit forward profile, to offer soft, market ready, instantly pleasing easy everyday drinking wines. Vineyards Situated on the south-south-west slopes of the Helderberg Mountain, in the heart of South Africa's most famous wine region Stellenbosch, our vineyards are commonly referred to as the Home of Chenin Blanc and other premium award-winning wines. The farm is 40 hectares and roughly 36 hectares of that is under vine. Soil: Duplex soils, in combination with decompose granite and fine sandy loam on a clay base. Trellised vineyard. Harvest Hand harvested. Yield: 8 tons per hectare Vinification Fermented cool, bottled early to show the freshest fruit flavours. Tasting Notes Lovely complexity with mix of tropical fruit, tangy grassy notes, fig leaves and nectarine nuances with crisp dry finish. Serve with Ideal with fish, chicken and pasta and friends. Scores/Awards 88 points - Anthony Mueller, Robertparker.com #245 - October 2019 3 stars - Fiona McDonald, John Platter’s Guide to South African Wines, 2020 86 points - Aleks Zecevic, Winespectator.com - October 2020 Reviews “The 2019 Petit Sauvignon Blanc begins as a simple stainless steel Sauvignon Blanc that is everything that it should be. On the nose, grapefruit, lemon and soft grassy tones can be found. The palate is clean and correct with a tangy liveliness, good structure and ends with a clean and zippy finish. For the price, you can't go wrong. 30,000 bottles were filled.” - AM, Robertparker.com
“Grapefruit zest & fig leaf typicity on 2019 poolside quaffer. Fresh, lively & vivacious, with zippy acidity.” - FMcD, John Platter’s Guide to South African Wines
“Nicely structured, with round edges, featuring lively acidity that drives notes of kiwifruit and lemon pith. Soft yet inviting on the finish. Drink now. 2,000 cases made.” - AZ, Winespectator.com
Petit Pinotage 2019 CSPC# 790305 750mlx12 14.0% alc./vol.
Chemical Analysis Acidity: 5.0 g/l pH: 3.60 Residual Sugar: 3.9 g/l Grape Variety 100% Pinotage Winemaker Ken Forrester Info The Petit Range is mainly from contracted vineyards that we manage from pruning to harvest, specifically sourced to suit a fruit forward profile, to offer soft, market ready, instantly pleasing easy everyday drinking wines. Vineyards Situated on the slopes of the Helderberg Mountain, in the heart of South Africa's most famous wine region Stellenbosch, our vineyards are commonly referred to as the Home of Chenin Blanc and other premium award-winning wines. The farm is 40 hectares and roughly 36 hectares of that is under vine. The following grape varietals are on the farm; Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Merlot, Grenache, Mourvedre, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Aspect: south-east facing slopes. Harvest 100% Pinotage harvested fully ripe at 25º Balling from blocks specifically selected for their fruity character. Yield: 9 tons per hectare Vinification Cool fermented after a cold maceration on the skins and pressed off early, before the development of hard tannins. This cheerfully Petit Pinotage reflects the modern fruit driven wine style that is in huge demand today. Tasting Notes Classic Pinotage aromas of spicy mulberries, plum pudding and cherries, supported by smoky bacon nuances. Juicy and accessible with soft palate and delicious fruit concentration. Serve with This cheerfully unwooded wine can be served with a generous slice of pizza or a barbeque, ideal for a 'braai'. Great with lamb. Perfect with almost any happy casual occasion! Scores/Awards 3 ½ stars (83 points) - Penny Setti, John Platter’s Guide to South African Wines, 2021 83 points - Aleks Zecevic, Winespectator.com - Web Only 2020 Reviews “Lively red fruit of num num & raspberry, inviting soft tannins. 2019 easy to drink & great with venison carpaccio. Stellenbosch WO.” - PS, John Platter’s Guide to South African Wines
1421-70 Avenue, Edmonton, AB, T6P 1N5 T: 780-462-5358 W: www.lanigan-edwards.com
Old Vine Reserve Chenin Blanc 2019 CSPC# 790307 750mlx12 13.5% alc./vol.
Chemical Analysis Acidity: 5.90 g/l pH: 3.38 Residual Sugar: 2.2 g/l Grape Variety 100% Chenin Blanc Winemaker Ken Forrester Info The Reserve Range. Here we are solely responsible for the cultivation of the vines and selection of the fruit, mostly from our family property in Stellenbosch, just 4 miles from the cool Atlantic and in the sheltered lee of the majestic Helderberg mountain. Vineyards Stellenbosch, Elim and Darling. Situated on the slopes of the Helderberg Mountain, in the heart of South Africa's most famous wine region Stellenbosch, our vineyards are commonly referred to as the Home of Chenin Blanc and other premium award-winning wines. The farm is 40 hectares and roughly 36 hectares of that is under vine. The following grape varietals are on the farm; Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Merlot, Grenache, Mourvedre, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Region: Stellenbosch, Helderberg. 37 years old vines. Soil: Clovelly - (deep yellow sand). Mature unirrigated vineyards with controlled yields. Locality: South-south-west Harvest Hand harvested, with careful selection. Yield: Low trellis and old bush vines. Approx. 4 - 6 tons Vinification Barrel and tank fermented and left on the lees (9 months French oak, 20% new) matured on secondary lees for a rounded complexity. Style: Rich and Ripe (Oak influenced). Tasting Notes Golden hued and full bodied, with melon and spicy baked apple aromas. Layered, with mineral notes enhanced by honeycomb and caramel flavours from lees contact. This wine is a great example of the harmonious balance which can be achieved between fruit and delicate oak/vanilla flavours, as they combine to form complex, soft flavours with sufficient body to enhance even spicy and full flavoured meals. Serve with Can be served with varied spicy dishes, full flavoured fish or chicken dishes. Ideal with crayfish, prawns. A true benchmark for relaxed enjoyment. Scores/Awards 4 ½ stars (92 points) - Penny Setti, John Platter’s Guide to South African Wines, 2021 92 points - John Szabo, Winealign.com - June 2020 91 points - Tim Atkin, MW, timatkin.com, South Africa Special Report 2020 89 points - Treve Ring, Gismondionwine.com - June 2020 88 points - Natalie MacLean, Nataliemaclean.com Reviews “Lovely golden hue, with a punch of quince & melon fruit along with honey hint, vanilla & florals. Silky mouthfeel & a pithy grapefruit finish. 2019 from 1974 vines, tank/barrel fermented, then 9 months on lees in French oak, 20% new.” - PS, John Platter’s Guide to South African Wines
“From six different parcels of vines now approaching their mid-century in the Helderberg in Stellenbosch, Forrester's Old Vines Chenin never fails to cause marvel at the extraordinary value it offers, and the sheer pleasure it provides. 2019 follows in a string of terrific vintages, at once rich and fresh, creamy yet taut, fine- grained and lengthy, with complexity rarely encountered under $20. Wild fermented and aged in wood, of which 20% was new, but understated, it's also lively enough to enjoy now, but my preference would be to revisit after a couple of years of bottle age. It's shocking how undervalued South African Chenin is in general, and bottles like this tell the tale. Score - 92. (John Szabo, MS, winealign.com, June 15, 2020) - Winealign.com
“Ken Forrester knows how to deliver plenty of flavour in a glass of Chenin Blanc. This is stylishly wooded in 20% new barrels, has peach, honey and nectarine flavours, a hint of lanolin and the freshness and focus that almost come with the territory in this area of Stellenbosch. 2021-25.” - TA, timatkin.com
“Chenin from 6 Helderberg mountain vineyards averaging 38 years vine age and from Clovelly soils goes into this chenin, handpicked in 2 tranches dependent on the facing of the grapes. The earlier picked grapes, from the warmer western side of the vine, were native fermented in stainless, while the second pick, a few days later and from the shaded eastern side of the plant, were native fermented in barrel. Both were left on all lees for 9 months in French oak (20% new). Flax, white peach, pear feels full on the well-cushioned mid, but is hemmed around the edges with a slight phenolic hug. Great value.” - AG, Gismondionwine.com
“Produced from Old Vines, sustainably-farmed Chenin Blanc wine grapes sourced from the Stellenbosch wine region. Rich, vibrant, full-bodied and smooth with ripe peach, apricot, honeyed apple, pear and citrus zest flavours on the palate. Pair with smoked fresh sea scallops sautéed in butter. Yum! Chenin Blanc food pairings: white fleshed fish, Greek salad, game, grilled pork, salmon tartare served on homemade crisp.” - NM, NatalieMacLean.com
1421-70 Avenue, Edmonton, AB, T6P 1N5 T: 780-462-5358 W: www.lanigan-edwards.com
Sauvignon Blanc Reserve 2016 CSPC# 790306 750mlx12 13.0% alc./vol.
Chemical Analysis Acidity: 6.00 g/l pH: 3.44 Residual Sugar: 1.9 g/l Grape Variety 100% Sauvignon Blanc Winemaker Ken Forrester Info The Reserve Range. Here we are solely responsible for the cultivation of the vines and selection of the fruit, mostly from our family property in Stellenbosch, just 4 miles from the cool Atlantic and in the sheltered lee of the majestic Helderberg mountain. Vineyards Region: Stellenbosch, Elim and Darling. Situated on the slopes of the Helderberg Mountain, in the heart of South Africa's most famous wine region Stellenbosch, our vineyards are commonly referred to as the Home of Chenin Blanc and other premium award-winning wines. The farm is 40 hectares and roughly 36 hectares of that is under vine. The following grape varietals are on the farm; Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Merlot, Grenache, Mourvedre, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Soil: Combination of decomposed granite, “Koffieklip”, Yellow Ferricrete, Red Ferricrete and White quartz. Vineyard Aspect North-East/South-West/North-South Harvest Hand harvested. Yield: Between 4 and 9 t/ha Vinification We always look for a hint of tropical ripeness, as well as a crisp clean backbone to carry the wine. To achieve this, grapes are hand-picked from 3 vineyards, approximately 300 miles apart. This gives three unique flavour profiles; all made separately and then blended straight after being drained off the lees. After crushing, pumped through mash- cooler straight to press for draining. Free-run juice settled and fermented separately from pressings. Extended lees contact after fermentation for about 8 weeks to increase “creamy” character. Juice/wine handled reductively throughout process. Tasting Notes This wine shows lovely complexity with mix of tangy grassy notes, fig leaf, and peach and nectarine nuances. Brisk acidity with minerality on the palate which is typical of the long hang time in our cool region. Serve with Very good while preparing a meal or out on the patio. Ideal with fish, chicken and pasta and friends. Scores/Awards 87 points - James Molesworth, Wine Spectator - Web Only 2017 4 stars - Joanne Gibson, John Platter’s Guide to South African Wines, 2018 Reviews “Juicy, with lemon pith, gooseberry and white asparagus notes. Lively finish. Drink now. 700 cases imported.” - JM, Wine Spectator
.5*J Merlot Reserve Pat’s Garden 2015 CSPC# 790308 750mlx12 14.5% alc./vol.
Chemical Analysis Acidity: 6.20 g/l pH: 3.52 Residual Sugar: 2.1 g/l Grape Variety 95% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc Winemaker Ken Forrester Info The Reserve Range. Here we are solely responsible for the cultivation of the vines and selection of the fruit, mostly from our family property in Stellenbosch, just 4 miles from the cool Atlantic and in the sheltered lee of the majestic Helderberg mountain. Vineyards Region: Stellenbosch, Elim and Darling. Situated on the slopes of the Helderberg Mountain, in the heart of South Africa's most famous wine region Stellenbosch, our vineyards are commonly referred to as the Home of Chenin Blanc and other premium award-winning wines. The farm is 40 hectares and roughly 36 hectares of that is under vine. The following grape varietals are on the farm; Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Merlot, Grenache, Mourvedre, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Region: Stellenbosch. Soil: Duplex with some clay – Kroonstad Aspect: south, south-west Harvest Hand harvested in individual parcels and selected for quality to get the ripest possible, balanced Merlot from our very finest soils, influenced by the cool S/E wind during the ripening season. Yield: 8 tons per hectare Vinification The wine was matured in selected French oak barrels for 12 months and blended with a small fraction of Cabernet Franc for structure and complexity prior to bottling. Tasting Notes Hints of cherries and mint with meat-spice and smoky undertones. Softly rounded and accessible wine with balanced tannins for early drinking. Serve with Serve with meat dishes, grills and roast lamb. Scores/Awards 3.5* stars - Fiona McDonald, John Platter’s Guide to South African Wines, 2018 Reviews “Previewed 2015 offers fynbos nuance to succulent mulberry & cocoa typicity; light bodied & easy.” - FMcD, John Platter’s Guide to South African Wines
1421-70 Avenue, Edmonton, AB, T6P 1N5 T: 780-462-5358 W: www.lanigan-edwards.com
Renegade 2014 CSPC# 790309 750mlx12 14.0% alc./vol.
Chemical Analysis Acidity: 5.60 g/l pH: 3.54 Residual Sugar: 1.9 g/l Grape Variety 57% Shiraz, 37% Grenache, 6% Mourvedre Winemaker Ken Forrester Info The Reserve Range. Here we are solely responsible for the cultivation of the vines and selection of the fruit, mostly from our family property in Stellenbosch, just 4 miles from the cool Atlantic and in the sheltered lee of the majestic Helderberg mountain. Vineyards Region: Stellenbosch, Elim and Darling. Situated on the slopes of the Helderberg Mountain, in the heart of South Africa's most famous wine region Stellenbosch, our vineyards are commonly referred to as the Home of Chenin Blanc and other premium award-winning wines. The farm is 40 hectares and roughly 36 hectares of that is under vine. The following grape varietals are on the farm; Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Merlot, Grenache, Mourvedre, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Soil: Duplex soils, fine sandy loam on a clay base. Trellised vineyard Harvest Hand harvested. Yield: 8 tons per hectare Vinification Fermented in open tanks with gentle extraction by pumping over and then pressed and racked into second and third fill French oak barrels for 18 months. This adds complexity and structure to the soft natural tannins. Tasting Notes This elegant Rhône blend displays Old World Style with New World fruit. Hint of Grenache’s earthy rusticity and Shiraz’s noble spice with hints of nutmeg and salty black olive on the finish. Balanced with soft integrated tannins.
Serve with Serve with roasts, duckling and full flavoured Mediterranean dishes as well as lamb or grilled meat and vegetables. Scores/Awards 89 points - James Molesworth, winespectator.com - December 2019 4 ½ stars (90 points) - Fiona McDonald, John Platter’s Guide to South African Wines, 2019 Reviews “Light- to medium-bodied, with a silky texture and beautifully integrated tannins, this red features hints of loam and underbrush that stand behind damson plum and kirsch notes. Details of dark chocolate mark the finish. Shiraz, Grenache and Mourvèdre. Drink now. 3,000 cases made” - JM, Winespectator.com
“Brambles & hedgerow fruits prominent on shiraz-led 2014 Rhône blend with grenache & dab mourvèdre. Muscular but cheerful, with light cedar note from older French oak, 18 months. Solid core & concentration.” - FMcD, John Platter’s Guide to South African Wines
The FMC 2018 (Forrester Meinert Chenin) CSPC# 790310 750mlx6 13.0% alc./vol.
Chemical Analysis Acidity: 6.2 g/l pH: 3.34 Residual Sugar: 7.6g/l Grape Variety 100% Chenin Blanc Winemaker In 1994, with most of the vineyard planted to Chenin Blanc it was decided to enlist the help of good friend and Top Winemaker, Martin Meinert, with the quest to produce Chenin Blanc that could rival any white wine in the world. Info Icon Range. Stand-alone parcels from single vineyards where we nurture and coax the vines and at harvest, we may pass through up to 6 times hand picking and selecting the bunches individually. Destined to be limited by provenance and finally after barrel aging, we only select the very best individual barrels to go into bottle, ensuring a unique superlative wine, justifiably the pinnacle of our efforts. Vineyards The farm is 40 hectares and roughly 36 hectares of that is under vine. The following grape varietals are on the farm; Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Merlot, Grenache, Mourvedre, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Soil: Clovelly soil, bush vines. Aspect: south-south-west Harvest Hand selected Chenin Blanc - primarily from low yielding, old bush vines (planted in 1974). Harvested at full maturity. 3 tons per hectare Vinification Maturation on the lees – total of 12 months in the barrel. Tasting Notes The pinnacle of what we consider to be the finest expression of the grapes of this varietal –an icon chenin, a challenge to the world! Rich, layered with dried apricot, vanilla and honey. Will gain additional complexity with cellaring. Serve with Enjoy with special friends as an exciting aperitif or with spiced dishes, even mild seafood/shellfish or curries. Great with exotic Eastern spiced foods. Scores/Awards 92 points - Anthony Mueller, Wine Advocate #245 - October 2019 94 points - Neal Martin, Vinous - November 2019 4 ½ stars (93 points) - Fiona McDonald, John Platter’s Guide to South African Wines, 2020 95 points - Winemag.co.za - May 2019 “On the nose, the 2018 The FMC is an elegant wine with a complex fruits, showing apples, melon and citrus with integrated oak tones and white flowers. The palate reveals more complexity and structure than the nose leads one to believe. With a waxy concentration and remarkable depth to the mid-palate, there are fruity and oaky flavors that spring forth, with well-defined structure, complexity and finesse. Medium to full-bodied, it is pleasurable, grippy and clean with a long, thoughtful finish. This is incredibly well made. It fermented with native yeasts and spent 12 months on the lees in new French oak. With Chenin Blanc like this, it's no wonder that Ken Forrester has earned the nickname "Mr. Chenin Blanc." 27,000 bottles were made.” - AM, Wine Advocate
"The 2018 The FMC is pure hand-selected Chenin Blanc from low-yielding bush vines planted in 1974, matured on the lees for 12 months in barrel. It has a complex nose of nectarine, pithy stone fruit, lanolin and beeswax and seems to constantly evolve in the glass; suggestions of white chocolate and broom emerge with time. The intense grapefruit and mango flavors are counterbalanced by the killer line of acidity. There is power in this FMC, but a sense of elegance triumphs on the precise finish. This comes highly recommended and can be broached either in its youth or with several years in the cellar. Drinking window: 2021-2042. 94 points" - AG, Vinous
“A pioneer of the SA chenin renaissance. Refined 2018 is rich, with signature ripeness, sun- dried pineapple & honeyed notes balanced by refreshing acidity. Creamy macadamia nuance from year in oak, sur lie. Low-yielding old bushvines (1974). 2017 untasted.” - FMcD, John Platter’s Guide to South African Wines
1421-70 Avenue, Edmonton, AB, T6P 1N5 T: 780-462-5358 W: www.lanigan-edwards.com Reviews “The current-release The FMC 2018 from Ken Forrester Wines works particularly well. The cuvée has always had a reputation for being a big and bold rendition of Chenin Blanc but what’s striking about this vintage is more the balance and intricacy. Grapes from a 1974 Stellenbosch vineyard, it was fermented and matured for 12 months in new 400-litre barrels. The nose shows a hint of reduction before pear, lemon, peach and apricot while a note of honeysuckle reveals itself with time in the glass. The palate has a lovely fruit purity and freshness, the finish long and pithy. It’s hardly a lean, underdone wine (alcohol is 13% and RS is 7.6g/l) but all the different elements come together with real clarity.” - Winemag.co.za
The Gypsy 2012 CSPC# 743898 750mlx6 14.0% alc./vol.
Chemical Analysis Acidity: 5.7 g/l pH: 3.32 Residual Sugar: 2.0 g/l Grape Variety 53% Grenache, 41% Syrah, 6% Mourvedre Winemaker Ken Forrester Info Icon Range. Stand-alone parcels from single vineyards where we nurture and coax the vines and at harvest, we may pass through up to 6 times hand picking and selecting the bunches individually. Destined to be limited by provenance and finally after barrel aging, we only select the very best individual barrels to go into bottle, ensuring a unique superlative wine, justifiably the pinnacle of our efforts. Vineyards Situated on the slopes of the Helderberg Mountain, in the heart of South Africa's most famous wine region Stellenbosch, our vineyards are commonly referred to as the Home of Chenin Blanc and other premium award-winning wines. The farm is 40 hectares and roughly 36 hectares of that is under vine. The following grape varietals are on the farm; Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Merlot, Grenache, Mourvedre, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Soils: Grenache from decomposed granite at 450m Shiraz from ancient gravels onto clay Harvest A hand-picked selection of the first ripest fruit. Yields: 2 - 3 tons/ha Grenache - planted 1959 6 tons/ha from Syrah - planted 1999 Vinification Cool soaked prior to fermentation, then taken to new French oak barrels for 12 months. At this point a further selection takes place before blending and the final blend goes back to new barrels to marry and harmonise over the following 12 months. After almost 2 years languishing in a cool cellar the Gypsy is stable with the oak and intense fruit totally harmonised. A very concentrated, focused blend, with layers of deep fruit. Tasting Notes The character is somewhat 'wild' a little brambly with hints of nutmeg, cinnamon, dark spices, with vanilla scents and a distinct, concentrated red-fruit focus. Great for laying down and keeping for at least ten years but already rewarding if allowed to breathe in a decanter. Serve with Deliciously matched with risotto, sensuously truffled pasta. Ideal for flavoursome grills, lamb and beef. Scores/Awards 93 points - Gilbert & Gaillard - 25 June 2016 91 points - Neal Martin, The Wine Advocate - 29 November 2015 91 points - Winemag.co.za Laurium Capital Signature Red Blend Report 2018 91 points - James Suckling (score only) 90 points - Tim Atkin (score only) 88 points - James Molesworth, winespectator.com - Web Only 2017 4 ½ stars - Joanne Gibson, John Platter’s Guide to South African Wines, 2017 Double Gold - National Wine Challenge/Top 100 SA Wines 2017 Silver Outstanding - International Wine & Spirits Competition 2016 Double Platinum - SAWi Wards, Top 100 SA Wines 2019 Reviews “The 2012 The Gypsy is dominated by Grenache with 2% Mourvèdre and Syrah matured in 400-liter oak barrels, some up to ten years old with no new oak, for around 12 months. It has a very pure strawberry confit, redcurrant jam-scented bouquet that typifies the grape variety. It's not profound or really that complex - it just dishes out lots of lovely red fruit. The palate is fleshy and ripe with succulent red berry fruit laced with white pepper and a bit of garrigue, very well balanced with a finish that just slips down the throat with consummate ease. So, damn drinkable you almost overlook its class.” - NM, Wine Advocate
“Smooth, with barely perceptible tannins, grenache-led Rhône blend 2012 plumper, juicier than last, with lovely depth of peppery & spicy fruit. WO W Cape.” - JG, John Platter’s Guide to South African Wines
1421-70 Avenue, Edmonton, AB, T6P 1N5 T: 780-462-5358 W: www.lanigan-edwards.com Reviews “Wonderful fusion of red and black wild berry fruits creating a dense, tannic wine for cellaring with a very soft velvety texture. Notes of mild spices, cinnamon and nutmeg heralding complexity in the future with oak already well-integrated.” - Gilbert & Gaillard
“Soft, with mature black tea and mulling spice accents emerging from the core of fleshy cherry and plum flavors. Tea and sandlewood line the finish, which still has good energy despite the late release. Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre. Drink now through 2018. Tasted twice, with consistent notes. 270 cases made.” - JM, Winespectator.com