THE BIG DOG
Inspired by a gentle giant.
Dogs have always formed an integral part of our family and none more so than Roc, our amazing Rottweiler. He was big, boisterous, a total clown, unquestionably loyal and above all the best ‘family friend’ we had ever had. Sadly he died at the age of seven from bone cancer. In honour of Roc I decided to dedicate this very special Cap Classique to him.
It is important to note that these wines are not commercially available but can only be purchased at the annual CWG Auction which takes place the first Saturday in October every year. You are able to register online – for more details see www.capewinemakersguild.com
Big Dog (CWG Auction Wine)
Both the Chardonnay and the Pinot Noir were picked by hand and then gently whole bunch pressed. The Chardonnay juice was barrel fermented and aged in large old French oak barrels to enhance the creaminess and complexity of the wine and to add palate weight. The Pinot Noir was tank fermented in order to accentuate the bright berry characters. After blending the wine was bottle fermented and aged on the lees for 53 months. After degorging the wine was aged for a further six months on the cork.
The Chardonnay imparts distinctive citrus and chalky characters while the Pinot Noir contributes strawberry nuances. Having spent 53 months on the lees results in a beautiful brioche and marzipan expression which is further enhanced by layers of vanilla from barrel aging.
Salmon gravadlax on crisp rye toast
Parma ham and red figs
Strawberries macerated with black pepper