VINOTEQUE: BERGKELDER
Die Bergkelder, the famous ‘cellar in the mountain’ and home of Fleur du Cap wines on the outskirts of Stellenbosch, has been re-opened after careful refurbishment to offer wine lovers a more intimate experience with the wines and their origins.
Laszlo Room
Officially opened in 1968 as the first bottle maturation cellar of its kind in the southern hemisphere, The Bergkelder fulfilled the dreams of Dr Anton Rupert and Dr Alfred Baumgartner, directors of Distillers Corporation (SA) Limited, the owner of the property at the time. This major investment in a technologically advanced underground wine cellar for the production of quality wines was a major shift in focus for the organisation which until then had earned most of its income from brandy. In the 1970’s, with Dr Julius Laszlo as visionary Cellarmaster, Die Bergkelder played a pivotal role in changing the face of the South African wine industry. Determined to produce world-class wines, he was one of the key protagonists in finding new plant material and encouraging grape-growers to introduce classic noble varietals to their vineyards such as Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot.
As a tribute to Dr Laszlo who passed away in July this year, a dedicated Laszlo Room for private tastings now takes pride of place in the refurbished cellar. In 2007 Fleur du Cap released an exclusive signature blend, Laszlo 2004, in his honour. Dr Laszlo was able to attend the launch and reminisce with old friends over dinner in Die Bergkelder, the very mountain cellar he helped to establish.
Stelllenbosch
Die Bergkelder offers wine lovers Fleur du Cap tastings in the heart of the cellar, creating a close encounter with the wines and the history of the underground cellar, cut deep into the Papegaaiberg. Die Bergkelder also holds a special treat for wine collectors. Pick your favourite wine from the Vinotèque and allow it to mature under perfect conditions in the cellar until you can delight in your favourite bottle when the time is just right.
The museum, located next to the wine shop, will take you down memory lane discovering items from yester year including an old Italian horse drawn cart, wine press, bottles, glasses and openers.
Die Bergkelder is open Mondays to Saturdays for cellar tours and tastings. For more information or to make a booking, call Tel: (021) 809 8025 or visit www.fleurducap.co.za.
Source: Cape Tourist guides association and Fleur du Cap. (Photos – Vinoteque)
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