“In the history of the auction I’ve missed very few pre-auction tastings, and none so far has shown the quality and depth that has been visible this year” – Michael Fridjhon

“This is the strongest line-up of white wines that I’ve seen” – Neil Pendock

“The Nederburg Auction is definitely ratcheting up the quality” – Fiona McDonald

“These are wines with character. Wines that stand out” – David Biggs

These are a few of the observations made by some of South Africa’s leading wine commentators at a recent pre-auction tasting held at Nederburg, of approximately 50 of the 2011 Nederburg Auction wines.

Words such as ‘consistent’, ‘premium’, ‘visible’ and ‘good quality’ were used to describe the selection of wines that were tasted, which offered a good representation across this year’s stylistic spectrum. The Chardonnay category elicited a surprising favourable response – read more about how this flight was rated on Cape Chatter.

Although overall volumes are down 15% from 2010, local wine media were in agreement that it is reflective of a clever, more careful approach to provide a more exclusive line-up of wines, initiated by a stricter selection process, which for the first time saw sommeliers participate on the judging panel.

Collectively the media’s overwhelmingly positive response delivers a verdict that serves to confirm that the Nederburg Auction is well on its way to achieving its objective to be a showcase for this country’s finest, most rare wines.

View more of the comments from this pre-auction tasting in the clip below: