Miko 2009

Mont Rochelle is the Franschhoek property acquired by Sir Richard Branson in 2014 as part of his Virgin Limited Edition collection of luxury hotels. Dustin Osborne is back as winemaker after a stint at Aaldering in Stellenbosch and John Worontschak of UK company Litmus Wines is consulting – cellar improvements have been introduced and the range has been rationalised.

In memoriam.

The flagship red is called Miko after the late Miko Rwayitare, Rwandan-born telecommunications businessman and former owner of Mont Rochelle and the current-release is a 2009 selling for R450 a bottle.

Made by Osborne during his original time at the property, it is 100% Shiraz, matured for 22 months in French oak, 45% new. The nose has a smoky top note before red and black fruit plus spice and subtle notes of liquorice and tar. It’s rich and full but not short of freshness and the tannins are fine and supple. Luxuriously styled but not entirely overstated, it should prove a hit with the well-heeled guests of the hotel.

#WinemagRating: 90/100.

See images from a recent visit here.