Limited edition Blind Astronomer range released
Two handcrafted, limited edition wines have been released as part of the new Spier Collaborative Series, which pays tribute to the work done by recipients of the Spier Arts Patronage Programme which supports extraordinary artists over an extended period of time.
The Blind Astronomer wines celebrate artist Berco Wilsenach’s four-year long project of the same name, which has been supported by the programme over the past several years.
The Blind Astronomer Chenin Blanc 2009:
Only two 300ℓ barrels of this special vintage were created, using the best grapes handpicked from a single vineyard block that is more than 40 years old. The grapes’ thick skins intensify the flavour and ensure that the wine ages well. They were fermented in French oak barrels and matured on the lees for one year.
The wooded Chenin Blanc is rich and creamy, with a stewed fruit aroma. A crisp lasting finish balances apricot and citrus boldness. Pair with smoked pork chops with redcurrant jelly, duck breast with a fruity applesauce, or Cape-style mildly curried pickled fish.
The Blind Astronomer Pinotage 2008:
Setting a new benchmark for Pinotage, this limited release wine is produced from 11-year-old vines planted unusually close to the ocean. It was matured in French and Hungarian oak barrels for 20 months.
There are aromas of berries and mature oak spices. The palate is creamy and full-bodied with easygoing tannins; layers of flavour include red fruit and ripe black cherries alongside savoury traces of mushrooms and charcuterie. Pair with any mildly spicy dishes, veal in a lemon sauce, or fillet of beef with a rich tomato red wine sauce.
The wines are available exclusively from the Spier wine shop from R660 for the gift pack (including Pinotage 2008 and Chenin Blanc 2009).
Read more about the Berco Wilsenach art exhibition here.