Wine with a Sommelier

Background and training of a wine poet

Le Roi has a twinkle in his eye as he carefully chooses a bottle from the impressive collection at Judd’s Local. Over notes of black and red cherries, he tells us how he attained his degree in Botany and Geology at the NorthWest University before completing a host of international and local wine courses, including WSET 3 and courses from the Michael Fridjhon Judging academy.

Becoming a sommelier requires intense study, palate training, and ongoing dedication. Similar to winemaking, it’s a long journey. We count ourselves lucky at Icon Villas to call Le Roi our official wine poet.

The official sommelier and wine poet for Icon Villas: Le Roi van de Vyver

Port for Portugal, Sherry for Spain

When wine is discussed, naming conventions are often raised as a topic. Portugal claims Port, name and all. The same is true for Sherry (Spain) and Champagne (the Champagne Region in France), but something we did not know is that South African Brandy holds two thirds of all global awards.

We have a long tradition of producing brandy, primarily in the Western Cape, due to our ideal climate for grape growing. When you visit us, be sure to try some potstill brandies, made using the traditional copper pot still, which results in richer, more complex spirits. These brandies are often aged longer than international counterparts, giving them deep, nuanced flavours.

What can guests expect from this wine poet?
As an Icon Villa guest you can choose from different packages ranging from introductory through to intermediate and advanced.

Le Roi’s love for the art of making wine and ‘liquid memories’ as he calls it, is evident. More than a passionate guide, he does not simply recommend wines. He is a storyteller and cultural bridge and sip by sip he will transport you to some of the oldest vineyards in the world, each with its own distinct terroir and winemaking traditions. From the Cabernet of Stellenbosch to Pinot Noir grown in the Hemel en Aarde region, from Swartland Chenin Blanc to Cape Port from Calitzdorp, to name but a few.

He loves to tell the story of each cultivar and to showcase how South African wines differ from and compare to international wines. He even offers a ‘Pick your Poison’ package that is fully customisable, you choose what you would like to learn about and sample. It doesn’t get better than this.

So, what did Therese & Le Roi drink?

Le Roi selected a bottle of Thief in the Night by winemaker Duncan Savage.

As he pulls the cork and brings it to his nose, he explains how this Grenache Noir delights with notes of cherries, bramble, herbs, and subtle spice complemented by a savoury tension and firm chalky tannins.

He describes this wine as an experience akin to a hike in a lush forest, and so, through his deep understanding of terroir, he connects us with the wine in a way that we will never forget.

What to take on a picnic this Summer…

South Africa has over 100,000 hectares of vineyards and produces more than 1,000 different wine labels. The diversity of wines, from fruity Chenin Blancs to complex Pinotage, offers a playground for any wine lover.

Le Roi recommends a Chenin Blanc to compliment your selection of cheeses. Specifically, the Ou Steen from Longridge. Think toasty marmalade, hints of orange blossom, pineapple, lime and honey nougat character on the nose that gives way to a fresh acidity and ends in a long lingering finish - orange peel, grapefruit and cherry vanilla.

Of course you will need a sweet ending, something like the fruit forward Cape Ruby by Boplaas. Surrounded by nature, spoilt for choice in terms of cuisine (Cape Town was voted best food city by Condé Nast Traveller) and with the added thrill of discovering new blends, this moment will stay with you long after your travels have ended.

About Judd’s Local
Judd’s Local is a wine bar and fine dining establishment located in the heart of the Mother City. We experienced it as a friendly place where you can stare at Table Mountain whilst contemplating life and falling in love with new blends of wine. Discover it at 141 Kloof Street.

Photo Credit: Sean Gibson Photography @seangibsonphotography