Introducing Annabelle Shiraz by Elana Afrika-Bredenkamp
Renowned media personality and entrepreneur Elana Afrika-Bredenkamp has unveiled her latest venture, the Annabelle Shiraz in an exclusive partnership with the prestigious De Grendel Wine Estate.
This innovative collaboration not only celebrates the art of winemaking but also aims to make a meaningful impact by empowering aspiring sommeliers from underprivileged backgrounds through the establishment of the Elana Afrika-Bredenkamp & De Grendel Sommelier Bursary, in association with the South African Sommelier Association.
"Using our talent for good, and to effect change, is a cornerstone of my upbringing. My father always taught us to help where we can, and where we see a need," says Afrika-Bredenkamp.
"Launching this new label, named after my youngest daughter, is a blessing. Being able to help a previously disadvantaged learner through the support of our wine-buying community is the highest honor for me. Winemaking is a hobby for me, but finally, we can help someone through this."
Made in the birth year of her daughter Annabelle, this 2017 vintage is a celebration of new, and the miracle that of support that Elana has experienced as a Mom.
Winemaking is not new to Afrika-Bredekamp who won Michelangelo Gold for her label 'Elana Wine' in 2012.
The Annabelle Shiraz represents a fusion of passion, elegance, and craftsmanship. The wine is a true reflection of family values and a commitment to excellence. Crafted with care and precision by the skilled winemakers at De Grendel Wine Estate, the wine showcases the diversity and richness of South African terroir.
However, the Annabelle Shiraz is more than just an exceptional wine. It symbolizes a collaborative effort to create positive change in the world of wine and beyond. A portion of the proceeds from the sales of Annabelle Shiraz will be dedicated to the Elana Afrika-Bredenkamp & De Grendel Sommelier Bursary, a pioneering initiative aimed at providing opportunities for aspiring sommeliers from underprivileged backgrounds.
Through this bursary, the partnership between De Grendel Wine Estate, Elana Afrika-Bredenkamp, and the South African Sommelier Association seeks to bridge the gap and promote diversity within the sommelier profession. The bursary will cover the education, training, and mentorship of a selected aspirant sommelier, empowering them to achieve their dreams and contribute to the dynamic wine industry.
Elana Afrika-Bredenkamp expressed her excitement about the collaboration, stating, "The Annabelle Shiraz is a celebration of both the beauty of life's moments and the power of giving back. By partnering with De Grendel Wine Estate and the South African Sommelier Association, we are not only sharing exceptional wines but also creating a meaningful pathway for aspiring sommeliers who deserve a chance to shine."
Charles Hopkins, cellar master at De Grendel Wine Estate, added, "We are honored to join hands with Elana on this incredible journey. The Annabelle Wine embodies our shared values of quality, innovation, and social responsibility. This collaboration allows us to contribute to the growth of the wine community while producing wines that tell a story of dedication and craftsmanship."
With an enticing deep ruby hue, Annabelle unveils a complex bouquet of ripe blackberries and plums intertwined with subtle hints of smoky oak and a touch if black pepper. The initial sip unveils a velvety texture, allowing the dark fruit flavors to unfold harmoniously across the tongue. The well-balanced tannins provide structure while maintaining an elegant finesse, leading to a lingering finish that combines the sweetness of fruit with a gentle whisper of spice. Annabelle Shiraz is a captivating symphony of flavors that showcases both the bold character of the Shiraz grape and the skillful craftsmanship behind this exceptional wine.
The nuanced character of Annabelle Shiraz makes it an ideal companion for a range of culinary delights. Its velvety texture and rich flavors harmonize splendidly with grilled meats, such as a perfectly seared ribeye steak or a succulent lamb chop. The wine's dark fruit notes and subtle spiciness also find harmony alongside hearty dishes like slow-roasted beef stew or pair it with charred eggplant and roasted red pepper tart for a delightful play of flavors.
The Annabelle Shiraz is set to inspire wine enthusiasts, empower future sommeliers, and create a legacy of positive change within the wine industry. Only one barrel was produced and matured in optimal conditions at the De Grendel cellar.
The limited production of Annabelle Shiraz will be sold exclusively at De Grendel Wine Estate at their Tasting Room, Restaurant, and online at www.degrendel.co.za.
For more information and purchase details, please contact:
De Grendel Wines – [email protected] - 021 558 6280
www.degrendel.co.za