Platter 5 Star Tasting, Amsterdam – December 2018

On Monday the 3rd of December, Wines of South Africa hosted a Platter’s 5* masterclass and lunch for media and trade in The Lobby, Amsterdam.

The masterclass was conducted by journalist and wine educator Lars Daniëls of Perswijn Magazine. Lars’ presentation with in-depth insight into terroir, developments in the South African wine industry and personal anecdotes of visits and the people behind the wines, and the interesting choice of wines (both imported and still seeking representation) made for a very informative afternoon.

The masterclass was fully booked with 50 people comprising of key media, sommeliers, educators and wine shops. It is clear that there is a keen interest for new and premium wines from South Africa and price is no longer an issue for quality wines. The Netherlands has a strong group of young sommeliers, who follow South Africa keenly, and are always looking for something new.  Elegance is of key importance, so are alcohol levels (not too high), and wines that are good partners in gastronomy. Chenin blanc in this regard remains a very important grape for South Africa, we produce a truly unique range of different styles with which to distinguish ourselves from the rest of the world.

- Sara Channell