February 2006

Happy Nouvelle Year

By: Charlie Hardie (Cellar Master at Browns of Rivonia)

Nouvelle is a cultivar that can be classified as the white version of Pinotage.

The brainchild of Professor Chris Orffer of Stellenbosch University, Nouvelle is a cross pairing of Semillon and Crouchen Blanc, otherwise known as Cape Riesling. It was developed between 1958 and 1962 and was first planted in 1997.

Briefly, the Semillon is the structure and backbone behind the wine with the Crouchen Blanc adding freshness and fruit. The wine is lightish in bouquet and taste with a pleasant and refreshing finish. It is probable that after sometime in the bottle, the Semillon component will start to dominate.

As a new player on the market and since its first vintage release only took place last year, it is far too early to speculate on its fortunes. Hopefully in the years ahead, it will not attract the notoriety attached to Pinotage.

Visit Browns of Rivonia to sample this fascinating wine and add a chapter to your wine education!