In unity there lies strength. Sizanani in Xhosa – one of the eleven official languages of South Africa – means “Helping Each Other.” In the spirit of helping each other, the Bellevue Wine Estate of Stellenbosch has empowered over eighty previously disadvantaged members of its staff to form the private company, Stellenbosch Wine and Logistics.
Stellenbosch Wine and Logistics mission is to create value-oriented quality selections that are full of the ripe fruit and the flavors that are synonymous with the wines from Stellenbosch. Sizanani’s inaugural offerings include a fruit forward Pinotage that stylistically will appeal to a wide range of wine consumers – including those who are unfamiliar with this Varietal indigenous to South Africa, or those who generally do not care for Pinotage, and a Chenin Blanc that is loaded with tropical fruit flavors.
Pinotage
Appellation: Stellenbosch, South Africa
Varietal: 100% Pinotage
Viticulture & Vinification: Select grape clusters were hand-harvested, de-stemmed and crushed before being fermented for 4 days in stainless steel tanks. After malolactic fermentation, the wine was matured for 3 months in virgin oak staves (75% American Oak, 25% French Oak).
Tasting Notes: A bright ruby-red, medium bodied wine with notes of vanilla, coconut, plums and raspberry followed by layers of ripe fruit and oak on the palate.
Serving Suggestion: A luscious red wine that can be easily enjoyed on its own or with mild curries, Thai Cuisine, pasta and meat dishes.
Chenin Blanc
Appellation: Stellenbosch, South Africa
Varietal: 100% Chenin Blanc
Viticulture & Vinification: Hand-harvesting was followed by de-stemming. The grapes were cold pressed and fermented for 14 days in stainless steel tanks. The wine was then fined, filtered and bottled.
Tasting Notes: A dry yet fruity white wine. Hints of tropical fruit on the nose follow through to a palate packed with fruit such as guava, melon and passion fruit. Clean finish.
Serving Suggestion: Best served chilled. Sizanani Chenin Blanc is the perfect accompaniment to salad, quiche, lightly sauced pasta dishes, wraps, sandwiches and simple fish and chicken dishes.
