Miss Marianne

One of my favourite activities is venturing into the Land of the Wine for rambling excursions on the weekend. One of these rambles led to the Tasting of Marianne.

WHITE:

• Marianne Rose (2012): Merlot, Cinsault, Chenin, Sauv Blanc. Strawberries, candied cherries, sugary white cheese.
• Marianne Sauvignon Blanc (2012): Barrel fermented. Savoury grapefruit, pretty floral litchis, baked sugared oranges, salted ripe peaches. (**)
• Marianne Sauvignon Blanc (2013): Yellow & green sparkles, salted litchis, salted peaches, peach pith.

RED:

• Marianne Cape Blend (2008): Spiced black Jelly Babies. soft powder, eucalyptus, green tea.
• Marianne Cape Blend (2009): Chocolate oranges, creamy, cocoa sifted over whipped cream.
• Marianne Pinotage (2009): Wet biltong, metallic, balsamic, tinny tomato, carrot stock.
• Marianne Floreal (2009): Marmite on buttered scones, fruity dark chocolate, smokey red, full mouth feel with very light spice. (*)
• Marianne Shiraz (2009): Peppered caramel, all spice, butterscotch, smoked meat, dry chalk, rich buttercream.

Novice's Notes:

• Farm is French owned
• First vintage - 2004
• "I wasn't that into her even when I was..into her"
• Francois Haasbroek, previously of Waterford, has taken over as winemaker
• Owner owns 3 wine farms in France
• Wine is made in the French-style
• Named after the French lady of liberty