The renowned Book XVII was a logical evolution of De Toren’s acclaimed Bordeaux blends, an expression of meticulous winemaking and extreme viticulture. This silky-smooth yet powerful blend, is often compared to the famed ‘super-Tuscans’ of the world.
Previously hailed as South Africa’s most luxurious wine and the highest ever rated SA wine by the reputable USA publisher, Wine Enthusiast, this wine stands proud amongst the world’s finest wines. The Vivino Community certainly agrees, rating this wine among the Top 1% of All Wines in the World and describing it as a ‘masterpiece’.
A wine of uncompromising quality, not a single one of the vast expenses spared, comes the exclusive release of one of the most coveted vintages of the opulent Book XVII 2017. This marks the 8th vintage release of this exceptionally exclusive Bordeaux-style blend and it is bound to be one of magnificent expression.
The 2017 vintage of this fabled SA Bordeaux-style wine is promising to be a vintage known for many more years to come, due to the favourable weather conditions of the season. South Africa CEO, Siobhan Thompson also remarks: “The general sentiment is that SA’s 2017 harvest was one of the best seen in many years, specifically in terms of quality.” Winemaker Charles believes that the sensational Book XVII 2017 is truly a celebration of this vintage’s magnificent expression of fruit, its impressively bold characteristics, yet subtle elegance. This, along with the team’s extraordinary devotion and expertise invested in crafting this one-of-a-kind wine, makes for an exceptional combination.
To ensure a seamless synergy between technology and tradition, near infra-red aerial imaging is used to specifically identify vines of only the highest quality. These Book XVII vines are carefully hand-pruned to grow merely four, perfectly balanced bunches per single vine. Each of these bunches receive individual attention and very specific manicuring during the ripening process, after which it is hand-harvested and also very methodically destemmed. All of this, before submitting it to New French Oak barrels for a period of 18 months in total. Each bottle is also individually labelled and uniquely numbered by hand. This remarkable wine is presented in a uniquely handcrafted wooden case, accompanied by an iconic key to ensure the safekeeping of this collector’s item with the ageing potential of 40 years plus.
-Albie Koch, Managing Partner-
