New wines to gain Franschhoek Appellation Grand Prestige certification
By Christian Eedes, 9 January 2016
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Appellation Grand Prestige is a special designation for Franschhoek’s best wines. The initiative was launched in 2014 and initially the focus was on three varieties only, these being Chardonnay, Semillon and Cabernet Sauvignon on account of these being considered the strongest performers historically (see more here).
Those behind AGP have subsequently sought to strengthen their ties with the pre-exisiting Vignerons de Franschhoek and now all wines that are certified as having been produced in the ward are eligible for AGP status.
Towards the end of last year, 92 wines from 27 producers were judged by an independent panel of five, the top 10 becoming the second batch ever to carry the AGP designation. These are:
Black Elephant MCC Brut NV
Franschhoek Vineyards Semillon 2012
Môreson Mercator Chardonnay 2013
La Chaumiere Pinot Noir 2013
Holden Manz Cabernet Franc 2013
La Bri Affinity 2013
Stony Brook Ghost Gum Cabernet Sauvignon 2011
Lynx SMV 2013
Môreson Straw Wine 2013
Maison Straw Wine 2012
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Ueli Schmidt | 13 January 2016
The Môreson Mercator Chardonnay 2013 is mentioned in both lists!? Therefore, so far 19 wines included? Why is there no Boekenhoutskloof wine in that list?
Craig McNaught | 21 January 2016
Hi Ueli
There are actually two repeats from the last AGP tasting – the other being Franschhoek Vineyards Semillon 2012. The only two prerequisites for entry are: the wines have to bee 100% W.O Franschhoek and the wines have to be current or future-release. Both of these wines are still available for purchase.
Cheers!
Erwin Lingenfelder | 9 January 2016
What wines were in the first batch?
Christian | 9 January 2016
The first wines to attain the AGP designation were:
Chamonix Chardonnay Reserve 2013
Maison Chardonnay 2013
Môreson Mercator Chardonnay 2013
Môreson Knoputibak Chardonnay-Semillon 2012
Rickety Bridge Chardonnay 2013
Rickety Bridge Paulina’s Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2011
Franschhoek Vineyards Semillon 2012
Franschhoek Vineyards Semillon 2013
Haut Espoir Semillon 2009
Stony Brook Ghost Gum Cabernet Sauvignon 2009