Steenberg Wine Estate is the oldest farm in the Constantia Valley(albeit not the oldest wine farm). The first owner was a formidable, bareback-riding serial widow named Catharina Ustings Ras, who came to the Cape as a stowaway on a ship (dressed as a man).
The feisty 22-year-old lass (already a widow by then) went through four more husbands and legend has it that she avenged all their deaths.
Below are the tasting notes of the award-winning Méthode Cap Classique range:
Steenberg Sparkling Sauvignon Blanc. Picture: Supplied.
Sparkling Sauvignon Blanc has been bottle-fermented naturally and exudes freshness with notes of tropical fruits, a crisp palate and dazzling mousse.
Pairs well with:
Sushi, chevin, tomato, oysters, salads, light seafood dishes, smoked salmon.
Steenberg 1682 Chardonnay MCC. Picture: Supplied.
1682 Chardonnay Brut has aromas of fresh Granny Smith apples with overtones of freshly baked biscuits and a creamy, yet fresh mouth-feel. It is a wonderful wine for all occasions, remaining crisp and refreshing on the palate without lacking fullness.
Pairs well with:
These flavours compliment a seafood platter, gravadlax, avocados, lime based Thai dishes, smoked salmon with scrambled eggs, fresh oysters, caviar, nutty sauces, asparagus, chevin and game poultry.
Steenberg 1682 Pinot Noir and a gift box. Picture: Supplied.
1682 Pinot Noir with its luscious pink colour has aromas of fresh strawberries and cream, raspberries, homemade brioche and a delicate mousse carried through with an incredible palate and a lovely fresh aftertaste.
Pairs well with:
Seafood canapés, nuts, empanadas, ceviche, lime based Thai dishes, smoked salmon with scrambled eggs, fresh oysters, caviar, nutty sauces, asparagus, chevin, mushroom risottos, lightly-spiced dishes
Steenberg Lady R 2011 Méthode Cap Classique and canister. Picture: Supplied.
With 5 years on the fine lees, the Lady R is a Pinot Noir/Chardonnay blend that exudes elegance with hints of crisp red apple, candies lemon and honey biscuits with a well-structured, full palate.
Pairs well with:
Nuts, empanadas, ceviche, lime based Thai dishes, smoked salmon with scrambled eggs, fresh oysters, caviar, nutty sauces, asparagus, chevin, mushroom risottos, lightly-spiced dishes