In common naval use the term flagship is the lead ship in a fleet of vessels, the one carrying the commanding admiral and flying his flag. Used more loosely, it is typically the first, largest, fastest and best known. Therefore the term ‘flagship’ cannot more accurately describe the Rietvallei Estéanna White and Red wines.
With Kobus being the ‘admiral’ in the metaphorical sense, the flag that he is flying with this flagship of his is very personal for a couple of reasons. Firstly, because both Estéanna wines are the result of years of dedication and hard work. A lot of time and effort went into their making. More so than with any of his other wines.
And then there is the beautiful name Estéanna. Not just another name, but the unique combination of Kobus’ two darling daughters’ names, Esté and Annie. A very personal title for this product. Also, a very loud and clear declaration of its quality and value.
The Rietvallei Estéanna Red is a blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 47% Cabernet Franc and 3% Petit Verdot. It is a full-bodied, complex wine with excellent fruit and wood integration. Lots of work in the vineyard and minimal interference in the cellar allows this wine to express its terroir to the fullest. The wine is deep, ruby red in colour and reveals expressive cherry aromas on the nose with delicate hints of violets. On the palate, the cherry flavours persist with just a hint of vanilla and cedar and a good lift of acidity. The tannins are sumptuous making this is a well-rounded wine that is showing beautifully in its youth, but which has the structure and fruit to mature for a good 10+ years.
The Estéanna White is a blend of 45% Chardonnay, 30% Sauvignon Blanc and 21% Chenin Blanc. The wine has forthcoming aromas of green fig and melon, which follow through onto the palate. It shows a crisp acidity, yet has a satisfying creamy weight from the partial barrel fermentation and maturation. The lingering aftertaste hints at the pedigree and longevity of this delicious wine.
When it comes to the making of these two premium wines, the selection process already started with the identification of the specific vineyards and working at it with special care from pruning right through to harvesting, ensuring a low yield and superb quality. The wines are both full-bodied, complex wines. The kind you savour at very special occasions, with time allowing you to appreciate the multifaceted components of the wine and with special people to share the moment with. It is the sort of wine you enjoy with rich and exotic dishes that match its fullness and complexity.