The Bellevue Estate, founded in 1701 in Stellenbosch, South Africa has been home to the Morkel family since 1861. Here the rich red wines are reflective of the exceptional terroir of the Bottelary Hills, a viticultural treasure within the Stellenbosch appellation. In 1953 PK Morkel pioneered the first commercial production of Pinotage – a varietal unique to South Africa. The Bellevue Estate has 190 hectares under vine – 70% of these are comprised of red varietals including Pinotage, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Shiraz, Malbec, Petite Verdot and Cabernet Franc. The estate is currently owned by the fourth generation of Morkel’s – Dirkie Morkel – who in addition to overseeing the estate is cellar master and chief viticulturist. He is an ardent conservationist and a valued leader in local preservation efforts.
PK Morkel Pinotage
Origin: Bottelary, Stellenbosch
Varietal: 100% Pinotage
Viticulture & Vinification: Hand selected grape clusters are harvested and spend 6 hours on the skins before fermentation at 26 C for 4 days. Malolactic fermentation is completed in tank. The wine is then matured in 300 liter new French oak barrels for 12 months.
Product Description: Deep ruby red with a concentrated nose of blackberry, plum, chocolate and vanilla. On the palate: layers of abundant fruit and well-integrated oak flavors with silky tannins and supple mouth-feel.
Serving Suggestion: A luscious accompaniment to smoked or Barbequed meats, roasted turkey and chicken.
Bellevue Estate PK Morkel Pinotage, 2006 Outstanding
“…Upfront fruit, opulent in its impressive currant density.” Platter’s Guide to South African Wines 2009
Bellevue Estate Tumara Pinotage, 2006 Excellent
“…brilliant depth and elegance…olive, mint and cassis notes and sweet fruit leading to a long fresh finish.” Platter’s Guide to South African Wines 2009
Bellevue Estate Tumara Pinotage, 2006
“Medium bodied but firm and powerful with aromas and flavors of dark fruit showing notes of tar, smoke, and chocolate.” Sante Magazine
Bellevue Estate Tumara Pinotage 2005, Rated 87
“An instantly recommendable Pinotage, with soft, pretty aromas of berry and spice and a balanced, integrated overall flavor. It’s approachable and full of juicy red berry that plays along with spice…” Wine Enthusiast, November 2007
Bellevue Estate Tumara Pinotage 2003, Rated 87
“This wine shows a healthy dose of oak with scents of vanilla and dill, but also a good amount of sour cherry. Full and smooth, with flavors of dark berry and cola…” Wine Enthusiast, March 2006
Bellevue Malbec
Origin: Bottelary, Stellenbosch
Varietal: 100% Malbec
Viticulture and Vinification: The wine then rests for 10 months in new French oak barrels – 25% which are new.
Tasting notes: Intensely ruby red. The nose presents powerful aroma of vanilla brambles and eucalyptus flavors followed by an abundance of concentrated ripe berry fruit on the palate. Well-balanced with good structure and a long clean finish.
Serving Suggestions: An idea companion for grilled meats, flavorful pasta and aged cheese.
Bellevue Titan
Origin: Bottelary, Stellenbosch
Varietals: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc and Malbec
Viticulture and Vinification: Select grape clusters are harvested then fermented at 24C and spend 6 hours on the skins before yeast inoculation then fermented at 26C for approximately 4 days. Fermented dry on the skins, the wine is then pumped over 3 times daily during alcoholic fermentation. Malolactic fermentations is completed in tanks. The wine is then matured in 300L French oak barrels (50% new) for one year.
Tasting Notes: A unique and well-balanced Bordeaux style blend, Titan is an intense garnet color with notes of vanilla, black currant, cedar and eucalyptus on the nose and complex fruit and wood flavors the palate. Titan may be savored upon release but will mature well for 5-10 years in the bottle.
Serving Suggestions: Titan is perfect for contemplative sipping or as an idea accompaniment to hearty meats, aged cheese or spiced pasta dishes.
Bellevue Estate, Tumara Titan, 2002, Rated 88
“With powerful aromas of tobacco and menthol this earthy wine definitely pleases..In the mouth, red berry is muted by forest floor, tobacco and mint, and the wine coats the palate with some gritty tannins. Finishes smooth…” Wine Enthusiast, May 2006
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