La Motte Releases The New Vintage Of Its Popular Millennium

La Motte in Franschhoek has released the 2018 edition of its Millennium, a fine example of a well-made Bordeaux-style red blend.

The 2018 La Motte Millennium consists of Merlot (52%), Cabernet Franc (30%), Petit Verdot (10%) and Malbec (8%). Harvested from Walker Bay, Franschhoek and Stellenbosch, each vineyard grows in its own macroclimate and in a wide variety of soil types. Each different terroir makes a unique contribution to the ultimate flavour and structure of the wine. With a dry growing season and a desirably cold but late winter, the harvest was 15% smaller and two weeks late. The grapes were healthy, with exceptional flavour retention and I am impressed by the concentration and balance of the wine. The various components were matured separately for 12 months in old 300-litre French oak barrels, before blending, filtration and bottling.

Tasting Notes

A nose of raspberry (Merlot) and English toffee (oak) combine in a harmonious way and complements the slight herbaciousness (Cabernet Franc) and earthy aromas of beetroot and leafy undergrowth. The Malbec and Petit Verdot add subtle spice and contribute to the intensity of the wine’s colour. The palate is juicy with concentrated blueberries, a fresh acidity and finishes with toffee and cinnamon.

Food Pairing

A South African interpretation of the famous Bordeaux-style red blend, the 2018 La Motte Millennium responds very well to red meat and roasts. Its accommodating structure also allows for mild curries and hard cheese. It is exceptional with creamy sauces and the earthiness of mushroom and therefore the perfect partner to this recipe for Mushroom soup with marinated mushrooms and garlic toasties by Hein van Tonder.