Millesima USA LLC – New York Fine Wine Merchant
Ben Haines
B Minor Shiraz Marsanne 2016
Winemaker and proprietor Ben Haines has been fascinated with vines and grapes since he was a child, walking among the vineyards of Victoria on his way to school. This fascination grew as he did, and to this day Ben enjoys exploring the effects of terroir on wine. It was this philosophy and approach to winemaking that lead to Ben Haines receiving the Wine Society’s distinguished Young Winemaker of the Year title in 2008. In this wine Ben is using
the Rhone varietals Shiraz and Marsanne. The use of Marsanne is very limited, so much so that he is not even using the juice of the grapes. Ben ferments the Shiraz along with the skins from Marsanne grapes that have been previously pressed for another wine. Additionally, the wine ages on lees from a previously fermented Marsanne. This subtle touch of Marsanne adds fantastic complexity.
Eikendal
Chardonnay 2015
Located just 40 min from Cape Town city center with the gorgeous Helderberg Moutains as their backdrop, Eikendal is a winery that concentrates on classic varietals such as Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot. This month I am featuring their very Burgundian styled Chardonnay. The vineyards where the Chardonnay grapes are grown are located near both False and Table Bay as well as the Atlantic Ocean. This location is key to as it provides cooling breezes during the hot days and cool nights. What comes across in the glass is a fresh and brightly styled Chardonnay. Ripe pear, honeysuckle, and orange peel are backed with minerality and well integrated oak. The finish is long and creamy. Because Eikendal supports non profits that aid children with disabilities, as well as being supporters of several wildlife associations, you can feel socially responsible while you drink this delicious wine!