Panel chairman’s choice: September 2011

VALUE CAP CLASSIQUE
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Laborie Brut 2008
APPROXIMATE RETAIL PRICE: R70

Chardonnay, Pinot Noir. Light yellow with a consistent mousse.  Golden Delicious apples and zesty lemon follow-through to a lively and youthful palate. A tingling bubble in the mouth and a lengthy finish show four years’ ageing potential.
AM’s score: 16/20

VALUE CAP CLASSIQUE
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Krone Borealis Vintage Cuvée Brut 2008
CELLAR PRICE: R75

Chardonnay 50%, Pinot Noir 50%. Pale gold colour. Quite forward with yeast and light hints of aldehyde adding complexity. Two and a half years on the lees provide alluring brioche on the palate and acreamy mousse with a lingering finish.
AM’s score: 16/20

INVESTMENT CAP CLASSIQUE
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Sterhuis Blanc de Blancs 2008
CELLAR PRICE: R95

Chardonnay 100%. Oak fermented and matured. Twenty-six months on the lees. Lemon gold in colour with a tiny bubble. An inviting toasty nuttiness with a rich fruit core. Very bright acidity, good structure and a racy apple tartness on the finish. Great ageing potential for the next four years.
AM’s score: 15/20

INVESTMENT CAP CLASSIQUE
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Bon Courage Jacques Bruére Brut Reserve 2007
CELLAR PRICE: R110

Pinot Noir 60%, Chardonnay 40%. Ten percent barrel fermented. Thirty-six months on the lees. A rich yellow colour with a bouquet of citrus blossom and lemon-cream. The palate has depth and is well textured with zippy acidity and a mouth-filling mousse.
AM’s score: 16/20

Tagged Editor's Monthly Pick, Progress report