With the Stormers not being able to put down the tackle bags and have much time for social activities during their preparation, bordeauxroom in collaboration with Haut Espoir Wine Estate gave the Super 14 contenders an opportunity to bond as a unit with a Red Wine Blending Competition.
Teamed up in several teams ranging from the “Gentle Giants” to the “High Hopes” , the day was a great success in all with all members of the Estate getting involved, with Winemaker Nikey van Zyl not giving away too many tips to the ever pressing Front Rowers.
There were some contended developments as each player participating in contributing to their teams blend consisting of all 5 Bordeaux varietals. With percentages measured out as accurately as possible, the hour time limit was used right until the last second to ensure that their team blend would stand up to the tasting panels critical assessment.
With a very discerning Judges Panel at hand the task ahead was certainly not for the faint hearted, kind of like the feeling of taking on the Crusaders Front Row. All teams certainly made the effort and there were some Wines that were even considered for a Haut Espoir Estate Blend. In the end the top 3 had to be blind tasted with all 3 pleasantly inseparable. The Winning Team ‘ Petit V ‘ which became the ‘ Petit III ‘ consisted of Willem de Waal, Dylan des Fountain and Dewaldt Elstadt. Although there were some cries of ‘Cheat-ah’s from the unplaced teams, with a certain flyhalf having a degree in Viticulture.
Special mention must go to Colcacchio’s Franschhoek and Jack Black Beer to providing some gap fillers for the Team and a refreshing palate cleanser for Boys in Blue.
The mission of bordeauxroom is to enlighten the enthusiasts of the curious South African into a new direction of tasting wine. We want to add dimension where there is education, creation and a generated desire to seek new wines and new experiences. We will strive to take the heart and soul of the winemaker and replace the boardroom briefings, Trade Show, Festivals and even the festive Wine Club, with the ‘ tastevins’ of the present day.
The wine industry produces many fine pieces of art and they need to be displayed in various ways for all to enjoy. By getting into the hands of those who don’t have the chance to experience the everyday joy of what most people take for granted, we will offer an experience that will benefit all parties involved.
For more information and a personalized quote and proposal, please email david@bordeauxroom.co.za or revert to the website www.bordeauxroom.co.za for more details.
“ You only have so many bottles of wine in your lifetime, never drink a bad one”
