South Africa

The bountiful wine-lands of the Cape weren’t in our original plans but then an opportunity came our way to re-establish an old relationship that was simply too good to miss. There is no doubting the quality and value that South Africa offers at all levels, from bulk offerings through to fine wine. I visited Stellenbosch, Worcester and Elgin a couple of years ago and remember marvelling at the diversity of microclimate, soil and approach to winemaking. We are proud and honoured to be distributing the excellent wines produced by the Pritchard family at Clos Malverne in the beautiful Devon Valley, our original offering will be augmented in the New Year with 3 great value wines under their Devonet label.

STELLENBOSCH - CLOS MALVERNE    www.closmalverne.co.za
The original owner of the Malvern Heights farm hailed from Elgar country around the Malvern Hills and when the 10 hectare property was purchased by Seymour Pritchard in 1969 he decided to tweak the name to give it a French air and so Clos Malverne was born. Two other farms close to Clos Malverne were purchased in the last decade adding another 15 hectares. The unique micro-climate of the Devon Valley makes a large contribution to the style and character of the harvest, the shallow valley is cooler than the surrounding areas which gives an extended ripening period. Traditional winemaking processes are used with gentle basket pressing, open-top fermenters and hand punching of the cap, followed where deemed necessary by ageing in French and American Oak.
It is a family affair at Clos Malverne with Seymour and his wife Sophia joined by family members Zaine, Lizelda and Mervyn over-seeing all aspects of the business apart from the winemaking duties which are looked after by Charl Coetzee. Over the years Clos Malverne has been awarded a multitude of medals and awards that have earned it an enviable reputation both at home and abroad, this huge tally was recently added to with a ‘GREAT GOLD Medal’ at the Mondial de Bruxelles Competition 2009 for the exceptional 2007 Pinotage Reserve.