Pieter Ferreira Blanc de Blancs 2015

By , 15 February 2022

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I wrote of the maiden vintage 2012 Blanc de Blancs from Pieter Ferreira that it was “categorically the best bottle-fermented sparkling wine I’ve ever drunk from South Africa” and I think the 2015 is even better.

From 100% Robertson Chardonnay, a small portion of the base juice was fermented in barrel, disgorgement taking place in September 2021. Frankly, it’s a revelation in terms of focus and precision. Luminous straw yellow in colour, the aromatics are quite beautiful: blossom and fresh straw precede white peach, lemon and Granny Smith apple, a touch of ginger, and the vaguest hint of smoky reduction in the background. The palate, meanwhile, is pure and light yet full of flavour. Electric acidity, a fine mousse and a bone-dry finish complete the picture (price: R425 a bottle).

CE’s rating: 95/100.

Buy This Wine

The recently released Rosé 2015 is a more substantial, dramatic follow-up to the 2013 vintage (no 2014). 82% of grapes from Stellenbosch and 18% from Stanford, it was left on the lees for 72 months. Deep pink with a copper tinge in colour, the nose shows raspberry, orange, earth and spice. The palate, in turn, has dense fruit, driving acidity, a soft mousse and a savoury finish. Greater intensity but perhaps less elegance than its predecessor (price: as above).

CE’s rating: 91/100.

Pieter Ferreira Extra Brut 2016 recently rated 91/100 – read the review here.

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Comments

2 comment(s)

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    GillesP | 15 February 2022

    Hello Christian. What is the difference in style and taste (if any) with the Silverthorn Green Man? Thanks.

      Christian Eedes | 15 February 2022

      Hi GillesP, I would say that the essential difference between PF Blanc de Blancs and Silverthorn The Green Man comes down to time on lees, the former matured for six years and the latter around two years. The PF therefore has great complexity of aroma and flavour (without necessarily the excessive richness that extended lees contact can bring) while Green Man is wonderfully lean and tense.

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