ON THE VINE AT BOSMAN WINES

I’ve had many a splendid day in the Winelands, but few outweigh my experience at Bosman Family Vineyards at De Bos Farm in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley. Steeped in history, tradition and family values, the eighth generation vineyard is one of South Africa’s oldest and most established wineries. It was a day spent tasting the various varietals, parasol in hand and smothered in sun block, as the valley lined our every viewpoint with mountains, vineyards and crystal blue skies.

Bosman Wineries, known for its successful vine nursery, treated us to a grape and wine tasting, followed by lunch in the pine forest on long wooden tables laden with country-style fare. The event’s planning, organisation and execution ensured it was a special day experiencing and appreciating the vineyard, wine and winemaker. The vine nurseries give the winemaking team (and us on that special day) access to close to 50 different grape varieties.

The cellar, available for tastings by appointment, is situated at the base of the Limiet Mountains near Wellington. It produces exceptional quality, hand-crafted wines that epitomise the family’s distinct values. We had the opportunity to taste the recently launched Adama range, consisting of the Adama 2013 red and 2013 white. ‘The Adama range is the very essence of Bosman Family Vineyards,’ says winemaker Corlea Fourie. ‘It’s about creating opportunity for families that contribute to its bounty, the unique innovations in our vineyards and the cellar, and in-depth knowledge of terroir accumulated over generations.’

The Adama 2013 white is a blend of Chenin Blanc, Chardonnay, Grenache Blanc and Viognier from Wellington, with the Semillon and Pinot Grisi hailing from the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley. Complex and with excellent ageing potential, the juicy tropical flavours and spicy notes from maturation in oak made this my day’s favourite.

The Adama 2013 red blend is a component of various sites, including the Bovlei Valley and De Rust estate. Rich in colour (think raspberry and prune flavours) with a touch of spice and light mocha made this – paired with the oozing camembert and fig tart – a winner from first sip till finish. I even had seconds.

If you like something light and are partial to pink hues, the De Bos 47 Varietal Rosé that we received on exit (that I opened that night with friends) is a wine perfect for relaxed summer braais, evidence of the fact that Bosman Wines really does cater to all, and exceptionally so.

OF NOTE
To learn more about the Adama range and Bosman Family Vineyards, visit www.bosmanwines.com
Contact +27 21 873 3170, [email protected]

Photography Peartree Photography