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The name, French for "The Virgin", alludes mainly to the new cellar, virgin soils chosen for planting and the first methode cap classique (MCC) to be released in the Hemel en Aarde Valley. Winemaker Marc van Halderen and viticulturist Petrus Bothma are particularly proud of the opportunity to develop virgin soils, plant virus free vineyard stock and go the French Burgundian route of high density plantings. They pursue the cool climate promise of excellent Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc but will also produce the first single varietal Riesling wine in the valley. Two Sauvignon Blancs reflect the different terroirs found on the property - La Vierge Sauvignon Blanc from older vines on the flinted, quartz-based sandstone slopes has a focused, mineral, citrus character; and the Temptation Sauvignon Blanc, grown on heavier, clay-based soils - is a bolder, herbaceous wine. A red blend, Shiraz based and inspired by Hannibal, made by neighbouring winemaker Peter Finlayson, is available under the La Vierge Temptation label. The MCC, not yet released, is a blend of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, to be launched in 2009. Wine from Domaine des Dieux is also available for sale and tasting at the cellar.

THE WINES:

Temptation Sauvignon Blanc 2009 - tropical style
Temptation Rose 2008 - perfumed and crisp dry palate
Temptation The Affair 2008 - exciting new Shiraz based blend
La Vierge Sauvignon Blanc 2008 - Mineral style
Redemption Sauvignon Blanc 2008 - Single Vineyard Reserve limited release.

On the R320, Hemel-en-Aarde Valley
Tel: +27 28 313 0130 Fax: +27 28 312 1388
Email: info@lavierge.co.za
www.lavierge.co.za

Monday to Sunday from 10h00 - 16h00.