For the first time in South Africa, some of the world’s most desirable luxury wines on the market will be available.
The Moët Hennessy luxury wine portfolio which includes Numanthia from Spain, Cheval des Andes from Argentina and China’s ‘First Growth’ Ao Yun have been added to the Wine Cellar’s online portfolio.
Director of Wine Cellar, Roland Peens has shared the latest developments in the international world of fine wine that is possibly the beginning of a new wine-growing era. Take a look at the short Q&A below.
We’re seeing more and more unusual settings for vineyards - like the Ao Yun wine estate located in the Himalayas – what does this geographic and cultural diversity mean for the luxury wine world?
We are only seeing great wine being unearthed from these vineyards now, however, these type of vineyards have been spread throughout the world for very long time. In fact, the vines that produce wine today, 'vitis vinifera', have been traced back to the 4th century in China.
Today, China has the 4th largest vineyard area in the world behind Italy, France and Spain. Most of the yield is allocated for table grape production however and not intended for fine wine. With globalisation of the economy and spreading admiration for fine wine, especially in China, old regions are being rejuvenated.
Much like the forgotten vineyards of Spain, Argentina and Chile, it has taken large investment to unlock the quality that lies dormant within. While the vineyards of France have been almost fully explored, there are many regions around the world that could produce benchmark wine in the future.
Do you feel that these new age wine producers could indeed mark the start of a new wine growing era?
Absolutely. Much like old vineyards in South Africa have only recently been revived and realised, Europe’s dominance of fine wine may not last forever. The more investment in new and forgotten vineyards over time, the more the wine world will change.
What are some of the most apparent differences between ‘New World’ and ‘Old World’ wines?
Traditionally there was a big difference, but this divide is slowly being eroded. There are many old vines in the New World and new vines in the Old World. Factors such as where the wine is grown and the age of the wines are very important and impart a unique character to each fine wine. But winemaking techniques and style also play a large role.
What are some of the ways in which Wine Cellar stays on top of the ever rapidly changing innovations and dynamics of the luxury wine market?
Wine is a language, a culture and livelihood. The more you read about it, travel, taste and drink, the more you get to understand the motives of the winemaker and beverage in the bottle. It’s also a very dynamic product, where some producers chase trends and styles. Wine Cellar tries to offer authentic wines in every segment, including luxury wines, where our customers always receive good value.
For more information on the luxury wine portfolio visit www.winecellar.co.za.
