Glen Carlou The Collection Sauvignon Blanc 2021

Region and Vineyards

Glen Carlou’s vineyards are situated in the Simonsberg-Paarl region of South Africa’s Western Cape, with this specific wine sourced from single-vineyard, dryland bush vines in Groenekloof, Darling. Known for its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, Groenekloof enjoys a cooler climate with strong oceanic influences that contribute to slow, even grape ripening. The predominant shale soils in the higher-lying areas of Darling support the growth of expressive and flavor-rich grapes, ideal for cultivating vibrant Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon.

Since 2016, Glen Carlou has been locally owned, with substantial investments in sustainable vineyard practices, including planting drought-resistant rootstocks and advanced clones to enhance the resilience and expression of the vines. The 145-hectare estate emphasizes natural cycles and individual care for each vineyard block, aiming to capture the unique potential of each terroir.

Winemaking

The 2021 vintage of The Collection Sauvignon Blanc / Sémillon was crafted with attention to preserving the individual character of each varietal. Both the Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon grapes underwent natural fermentation in seasoned 225-liter French oak barrels, with each varietal kept separate throughout the initial fermentation. Following fermentation, the wines were blended and returned to barrel for an additional 6 months, allowing for full integration and maturation.

The blend was designed to highlight the gooseberry and mineral backbone of Sauvignon Blanc, complemented by Sémillon’s floral, white pear, and citrus blossom notes. This oak maturation and blending approach brings a creamy texture and balance, creating a complex, well-rounded profile.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Pale yellow with greenish hues.
• Aroma: Blackcurrant leaf, passionfruit, and a touch of green pepper, with hints of salinity on the entry.
• Palate: A rich, balanced mouthfeel with flavors of fresh gooseberries, a hint of watermelon, and Sémillon’s characteristic creaminess that extends through a long, refreshing finish.

Did you know?

Glen Carlou has a long-standing reputation as a trusted South African wine producer. Since the estate returned to South African ownership in 2016, Glen Carlou has focused heavily on sustainable viticulture and replanting efforts, aiming to enhance the resilience of their vineyards and preserve Groenekloof’s distinct terroir.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Oysters with a mignonette sauce: The wine’s fresh acidity and slight salinity enhance the briny freshness of oysters.
• Grilled sea bass with lemon and herbs: The vibrant citrus and mineral notes complement the delicate flavors of the fish.
• Goat cheese salad with green apples and walnuts: The wine’s fruity and herbal notes balance well with the tangy creaminess of goat cheese and the crunch of green apple.
• Chicken piccata with capers: The creamy texture and bright acidity of the wine harmonize with the lemony, caper-filled sauce.

History of Glen Carlou

Founded in 1985 in the Paarl wine region of South Africa, Glen Carlou quickly established itself as one of the Cape’s most forward-thinking producers. The winery lies at the foot of the Simonsberg mountains, an area known for its ancient soils and moderate climate, offering an ideal foundation for quality viticulture.

In 2003, Glen Carlou gained international attention when it became part of the Hess Family Wine Estates, a prestigious global wine portfolio. This connection elevated the estate’s profile and ushered in a new phase of technical precision and stylistic evolution. Although the Hess ownership has since changed, the focus on terroir expression and craftsmanship has remained constant.

Over the years, Glen Carlou has been home to notable winemaking talents and is particularly celebrated for pioneering work with Chardonnay, which remains a benchmark for South African expressions of the grape. Its reputation also extends to red Bordeaux varieties, often vinified with a polished, international aesthetic but rooted in South African identity.

Region and Vineyards

Glen Carlou is located in Paarl, part of the Western Cape’s Coastal Region. The vineyards benefit from a Mediterranean climate tempered by cool Atlantic breezes, especially influential in the evenings. This diurnal shift is critical for preserving acidity and aromatic finesse in both whites and reds.

The Simonsberg foothills offer a diverse range of vineyard altitudes, exposures, and soil compositions, including decomposed granite and shale. These soils contribute structure, minerality, and longevity to the wines. The estate employs sustainable viticulture, balancing modern practices with environmental responsibility. Vineyard blocks are managed individually, allowing for micro-vinification and precision blending.

Wine Range of Glen Carlou

Glen Carlou’s portfolio covers a broad stylistic range, with a consistent focus on varietal clarity and site expression. The estate is renowned for its Quartz Stone Chardonnay, a single-vineyard wine of notable complexity and aging potential. The Classic Collection includes well-executed varietals such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Chenin Blanc, while the Prestige range features limited releases and cellar experiments that reflect the winemaker’s creativity.

Bordeaux-style blends, particularly those under the Grand Classique label, are layered and refined, showcasing elegant tannins and judicious oak integration. Recent vintages also highlight a growing interest in site-driven Syrah and more restrained interpretations of Sauvignon Blanc.

Did you know?

Glen Carlou’s Quartz Stone Chardonnay was among the first South African wines to garner international acclaim for its Burgundian style. It’s named after the vineyard’s unique quartz-rich soils that enhance the wine’s minerality and tension—hallmarks that have become synonymous with the estate’s white wine identity.