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Sparkling dry
Ken Forrester Sparklehorse Blanc 2023 - Cap Classique style sparkling wine made from 100% ‘Chenin Blanc’ grapes. This is an elegant and lively South African sparkling wine.
The aroma reveals notes of green apples, pears, quince, citrus peel and white flowers, complemented by delicate tones of brioche, toast and nuts, which appear during the long maturation with yeast. The wine is fresh, soft: fine bubbles create a creamy texture, and bright acidity provides energy and a long mineral aftertaste.
The wine is produced using the traditional sparkling wine production method (“méthode traditionnelle”). After the second fermentation in the bottle, the wine is aged on the lees for about 28 months “sur lattes” in order to obtain greater complexity, creaminess and a delicate mousse texture.
The grapes are harvested from cooler areas of the Stellenbosch region, where the influence of the Atlantic Ocean helps maintain natural acidity - crucial for quality sparkling wine.
It is recommended to serve at a temperature of 6–8 °C. Perfect as an aperitif, it goes well with oysters, seafood, grilled white fish, light chicken dishes or soft mature cheeses.
The charismatic Ken Forrester, the figure behind some of South Africa's most acclaimed wines, states, "Our idea was simple – to create the best wine. For the first four or five years, we had nothing to show." However, a pivotal bottle taken to London for wine expert Matthew Duke changed everything. His reaction was incredible – it was an unprecedented expression of ‘Chenin Blanc’ from South Africa. Matthew Duke didn't hide his enthusiasm, simply calling the wine "This is frickin marvelous chenin."
The winery's philosophy is remarkably clear and focused – to produce the finest wines possible. This is undoubtedly a constant goal, challenged annually by nature's unpredictable vintage variations. Nevertheless, careful and attentive vineyard monitoring and management allow for the most optimal decisions each year. Although Ken Forrester wines are not officially certified organic or biodynamic, significant efforts are made on the estate to adhere to environmentally friendly, sustainable, and nature-preserving standards.
Wine Style
Ken Forrester wines are celebrated for their expressiveness, richness, and excellent balance. They perfectly reflect the terroir of the Stellenbosch region and the winemaker's individual touch.
Prestigious Vineyards
Ken Forrester Wines owns and meticulously manages vineyards in the prestigious Stellenbosch region of South Africa:
These unique vineyard characteristics and meticulous work in the cellar are the foundation for the exceptional quality of Ken Forrester wines.
Aging and Drinking Period
The style of Ken Forrester wines allows them to be enjoyed both in their youth and after bottle aging. Their balanced acidity and structure give the wines the potential to develop over time, gaining even more nuance and complexity. This is particularly true for their top-tier ‘Chenin Blanc’ and red wines, which can offer pleasure for decades.
