Val de Vie, in the Paarl-Franschhoek Valley, creates two wine ranges from its L’Huguenot cellar on the estate.
Q: What determines grape selection for the wines made for the Val de Vie ranges?
A: For the Polo Club range, we source cultivars from within the Western Cape that best express the different grape varieties. So, for the Chenin Blanc, we went to the Paarl region, for the Sauvignon Blanc, we source grapes from cooler areas. For the red wines, we source grapes from areas where we know grapes will reach optimal colour and flavour ripeness.
We source the Val de Vie red wines according to the style of grapes for a premium, well-defined wine, bigger and bolder, that will age well. We look for grapes that show off complex varietal characteristics, small berries with intense flavour and a good ripe tannin structure that will be good to age for 18 months or more in barrels.
Q: What is the difference between the two ranges?
A: The Polo Club wines are easy and elegant, packed with flavour, but also fresh and fruity. These are well-balanced wines that you can enjoy drinking with friends, with or without food. The range includes a Chardonnay/Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc and a Merlot. The Val de Vie range comprises full-bodied red wines, complex and layered, with a well-defined tannin structure to support a long lingering aftertaste. Our Valley of Life Signature Blend is a Bordeaux blend of Cabernet, Merlot, Malbec and Petit Verdot. The Ryk Neethling is a Rhône blend of the 2016 vintage of Syrah and Grenache Noir. Our Val de Vie MCC is a Chardonnay-based bubbly aged on the lees in the bottle for two years, with a sweet shortbread biscuity nose and a fresh citrus-like taste. Perfect for celebrating!
Q: What food pairings would you suggest for the two ranges?
A: We like to talk about the weight of wine and food rather than automatically pairing white meat with white wine. The Polo Club range is light and goes with all sorts of summer dishes, while the Merlot also has the structure to complement deeper beef dishes. The Val de Vie range is heartier and perfect for complex winter fare. For the MCC, oysters and seafood are the natural pairings.
Val de Vie
021 863 6100
Words: Kit Heathcock | Images: Supplied
