Diarise this.  Come March, Steenberg is releasing its new vintage of the famous Magna Carta.  Only into its second release, the wine is already a legend in South Africa.  A blend of the 2009 vintage Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon, it is the quintessential expression of Steenberg’s unique terroir.  Steenberg only bottles the Magna Carta in the best years, and the last time they bottled was the 2007 vintage released in 2008 and sold out in a very short period of time.

Previously a meagre 3000 bottles were produced, and even though I have not had a figure from the Steenberg team, it does appear that production will be around there again.  Sold at a premium R395, the wines biggest attraction is the longevity it promises to deliver.  I had the good fortune of owning a bottle of the 2007 vintage, and something that I remember distinctly was the complexity, broad flavour spectrum and freshness of the wine.

The Magna Carta packaging is minimalist, with a plain white embossed label and heavyweight bottle the distinctive features.

Having recently attended a museum class tasting at Steenberg, where we tasted Sauvignon Blanc’s and Semillon’s going back to the early 90′s, the Magna Carta’s ability to age is beyond debate.  I tasted as far back as 1993 for the Sauvignon Blanc’s and 1996 for the Semillon and even though they might not be to the taste of everyone, they were almost all distinctively fresh and with some fruit still there.  The only vintage that was over the hill for both varietals was 1999.

Named after the charter signed into law in 1225 in England, it was (and still is) one of the most important events in history.  It limited certain powers of the King of England, and in short basically stated that he is not above the law of the land.  For a full explanation Google it.  No history lessons here… here it’s about food and wine.

Back to the wine – I recommend you invest in a few bottles, cellaring it and then start to enjoy the fruits of this wise decision in 2 years from now.   It is a worthy investment.

www.steenberg-vineyards.co.za
021 713 2211