Zevenwacht is a privately owned estate specialising in the production of innovative hand crafted wines. It’s fairly large for a private enterprise, about 450 hectares with 200 hectares under vine. The other 250 are dedicated to their associated enterprises all surrounded by beautiful parkland. They have a restaurant, accomodation and spa, with a chef school, a cheesery making cheese from Friesland milk, and of course a wine tasting room. They offer various functions on the estate from conferences to weddings!  Their wines are quite special. Wine maker Jacques Viljoen uses tried and tested old school methods but also embraces modern technology and innovation. The result is wines with a classical elegance and modern twist. Every single one of their wines that I’ve tried has been excellent.

What’s it like?

This wine is truly superb. Denise is supremely proud of this wine. They only make 1200 bottles per year, as an artform rather than for commercial profit. Predominantly Syrah with some Mouverdre and a tiny amount of Viognier. It’s supremely smooth with delicious flavours of dark chocolate, and a lovely full mouthfeel like velvet. Great length with supreme balancing acidity. I’ve never tasted a Rhone blend from France which can come close to this masterpiece.

How much? Where can I buy some?

Well, that’s the problem - it’s severely limited, but you may be lucky enough to find a few bottles of Zevenwacht Z Rhone Blend at  www.goodwineonline.co.uk if they still have some left, at £19.95, as they’re the only UK retailer who Zevenwacht allow to have any!