Traditionally, Rosé Champagne is made from two red varieties, namely Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. With Silverthorn The Genie they broke the rules. Embracing the free-willed spirit of the Genie, they opted for something far more daring and exotic, and used Shiraz, an ancient grape variety, originating from Persia.
The Genie was hand harvested in mid February in the early hours of the morning at 19 degrees balling. The grapes were whole bunch pressed with a very low recovery rate of only 550 liters per ton — this ensures that no bitter tannins are extracted and leaves the juice with a beautiful light purple colour. The colour gradually evolves into a salmon pink. Fermentation took place in a stainless steel tank at 15°C. Secondary fermentation occurred in the bottle and the wine spent a minimum time of 18 months on the lees after which it was manually riddled and disgorged. Total production was 13 900 bottles.
- Sparkling wine made in the traditional Champagne method
- Minimum of 18 months aging
- 100% Shiraz grapes
- Colour/appearance: Bright onion skin — fine twirling bead of bubbles
- Nose: Exotic bouquet of Turkish delight and rose water
- Palate: Fresh raspberries and sherbet flavours supported by a velvety texture, fine mousse and lengthy finish
- Suggested food pairings: Salmon gravadlax on crisp rye toast, Parma ham and red figs, Strawberries macerated with black pepper
- Double Gold winner at the 2017 Rosé Rocks Competition
Silverthorn is a dedicated Cap Classique producer with outstanding Platter Guide and Tim Atkin Master of Wine ratings.