Drunk!

I may well be the only person on the planet who hasn’t seen The Lion King. At least, I thought I was until I went for lunch at Waterkloof last week and owner Paul Boutinot rather shamefacedly confessed that he hadn’t either, which is why he thought ‘Circle of Life’ was a good name for their new flagship white blend!

But, Pumba jokes aside, it is actually quite a good name for a wine, especially one which is produced in such a sympathetic manner. The wrap-around label has drawings of all stages of the vine’s life cycle running in a continuous loop, and very much ties in with the philosophy of Paul and winemaker Werner Engelbrecht – that nothing is done in isolation and sustainability and the renewal of nature are the real key to success in winemaking.

Well, if they were looking for a good example of their ideals, then the Circle of Life is perfect. A blend of ‘about 60% Sauvignon, 30% Chenin and 10% Semillon’ (Paul wouldn’t reveal the exact quantities), all the different components have spent some time in oak. The result is a surprisingly delicate wine with good acidity, yellow and green fruit and a gentle, subtle, supporting vanilla whiff. We enjoyed it on the day with seared tuna and tartare sauce – very yummy – and I can see it being a sushi favourite as well.

I must say that the Waterkloof restaurant was quite spectacular as always, even in the rain which lashed the windows at intervals during lunch. The fireside tasting section was warm and toasty and I am quite motivated to go back and try their specials over the Stellenbosch Wine Festival as well. Chef Gregory Czarnecki makes lovely food (although I wouldn’t be surprised to hear he got his knuckles wrapped after the very poor service delivery last week when 2 tables had finished eating before the other 2 had even got their food! And he had at least 10 chefs in the kitchen as well – too many cooks perhaps??) and I am extremely keen on trying his Lamb Pie at R70. That, a glass of Shiraz and the lovely fire-and-sofa-combo could mean I might be there sometime. Perhaps they could even ship in a movie for me to watch as well – any suggestions?!

PS – I spotted that the decanter was etched with the words ‘Circle of Life White’ and Paul confirmed that a Circle of Life Red is also on the way – no more details but definitely one to wait for with much anticipation I think! The white sells for R140 and is available now from the farm and selected retailers.