During events carried out simultaneously on the Boschendal estate outside Franschhoek, at the Daytona Showroom in Johannesburg and The Ash steakhouse and bar in Düsseldorf, Germany, DGB yesterday launched a new wine, namely Boschendal Nicolas 2016.

In Franschhoek, the event started at Die Werf restaurant, Boshendal Jean le Long MCC 2008 (R1150 a bottle) paired with savoury macaroons, this served overlooking the food garden. Then guests were transported across the property to old sherry cellar-turned-function room to enjoy Boschendal Elgin Chardonnay 2016 (R475 a bottle) with further canapes before formalities began.

Prior to pouring the wine for guests, addresses from Boschendal marketing manager Shirley van Wyk and cellarmaster Jacques Viljoen (incumbent since mid-2018) plus an audio-visual presentation featuring messages from the following brand ambassadors: fashion designer David Tlale, chef Miles Khubeka and artist Azael Langa.

And finally, Nicolas 2016 – a blend of 58% Shiraz, 14% Petit Verdot, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Malbec, 7% Merlot and 3% Cabernet Franc, matured for 16 months in 300-litre barrels, 20% new, W.O. Coastal Region, total production 20 000 litres, approximate retail price R200 a bottle. Packaging features gold on black, that reliable colour scheme to signify premium status and the wine is named after Frenchman Nicolas de Lanoy who farmed in the area in the 17^th century.