Doolhof Theseus 2011

Wine: Doolhof Theseus 2011

Winery: Doolhof Wine Estate

Winemaker: Gielie Beukes

Region: Wellington

Background: Doolhof is an intriguing wine estate nestled in the rich fertile, and beautiful valley just outside Wellington, below the start of the Bains Kloof Pass. The name Doolhof is Afrikaans for “Labyrinth”. According to Greek mythology Labyrinth was the name given for a large and elaborate structure created for King Minos of Crete, to secure the scary Minotaur (a supposed creature that was half man and half bull!)

Labyrinths are designed to have only one entry and exit point i.e a single pathway to the centre. They have over the centuries being used for meditation as apparently while walking and focusing on the paths soothes the mind and calms the nerves….great for stress relief! Early settlers when seeing the farm for the first time noted the many hills and valleys reminding them of a labyrinth!

Although the farm has been in existence for three centuries, it was only in 1995 that vineyards were planted and the first bottling happened in 2001. The present owners acquired the property in 2003 and have since built a new winery, tasting facility and restored the magnificent Manor House on Doolhof, named Grand Dedale.

The Theseus is a classic Bordeaux blend of the five traditional varieties which are all gown on the estate. The wine was aged for 24 months in 80% new and 20% second fill 225 litre French oak barrels before being bottled in June 2014.

Result: The wine offers aromas of black cherries and cassis which follows through to the palate.  The palate continues to delight the senses with its juicy mid palate flavours of dark fruits and well-integrated tannins.

When to drink: Now till 2025

Drink with what: We enjoyed the wine with delicious Crispy lamb shoulder and fillet prepared by the team at La Mouette in Sea Point.

Expect to pay (prices may differ nationally): R242

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