PLETTENBERG BAY - Plettenberg Bay's wine industry has just received another feather in its cap - as a result of Newstead Wine's wine-making skills.

The Newstead 2017 Newstead Blanc de Blanc MCC Brut was awarded a gold medal at the International Wine and Spirit Competition (IWSC) in London, with a score of 96.

More than 500 South African wines were entered and only 36 were awarded gold medals and only 14 of those scored higher than 95, making Newstead's accolade even more exceptional.

The Newstead team said that they had decided to hold their MCCs back and keep them on the lees for several years before releasing them: "It's another affirmation that our decision has made it worth the wait.

"Our aged wines have received consistent recognition over the last few years, both locally and abroad. This is our best result at the IWSC, beating the 95 we scored with our 2015 Brut. The 2017 Brut has maturity, intensity, elegance and depth."

According to the tasting notes the Newstead Blanc de Blanc MCC has "aromas of fresh citrus and orchard fruits that intertwine with a nutty richness, exuding amazing depth".

"The palate reveals light creamy characters with an incisive lacy texture, balanced by fresh, chalky acids and creamy berry notes. The finish is rich, rounded, and impressively persistent."

Newstead was started by Doug and Sue Lund, who brought their family to The Crags in 2006 when the Plettenberg Bay Wine of Origin region was in its infancy.

They bought 11.5 hectares of fallow land and planted Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes. Over the years they have received many accolades for their wines.

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