“A nuanced crimson red that presents a balance between warm and cool, assertive, but not aggressive, a carmine red that does not boldly dominate but instead takes a ‘fist in a velvet glove’ approach”.¹ This is but one of the various descriptions of Viva Magenta 18-1750, Pantone’s Colour of the Year for 2023, that also beautifully applies to La Motte’s recently released 2020 Millennium.
A wine that will keep much longer, but that will most likely be enjoyed during 2023, the new vintage La Motte Millennium echoes some of the vigour and nuance of 2023’s exuberant colour - from the tone of its packaging to its tasting descriptors and emotive connotations. See the Colours of La Motte Millennium.
While it is the Malbec (12%) and Petit Verdot (3%) in the blend that contributes to the intensity of the wine’s colour, there is of course more to this popular red than its alluring shade in the glass. The classic blend consists predominantly of Merlot (50%) and Cabernet Franc (35%) offering aromatic dark berries and plum with nuances of fruit cake and a subtle toffee sweetness. Complex with barrel-derived spice and charred oak flavours, the wine is beautifully integrated and medium-bodied with mellow tannins and a lingering berry aftertaste.
Grapes for the wine originate from vineyards in Stellenbosch, Malmesbury, Franschhoek and Bot River. A variety of soil types and clones are represented, but each vineyard grows in its own macro climate. The growing season consisted of a cold winter with positive vineyard conditions resulting in even bunch development and a mild summer without heat waves to ensure exceptional flavour.
Fermentation took place during pump overs and at between 25°C and 30°C. The various components were matured separately for 12 months in old 300-litre French oak barrels, followed by blending and filtration. 20 000 cartons (6 x 750 ml) and 995 x 1.5L Magnums of the 2020 La Motte Millennium were released.
A trusted choice, not only for its consistent quality, but also its elegance, accessibility and versatile food pairing ability, the 2020 La Motte Millennium is a popular partner to red meat, it is a delicious choice with mild curries and hard cheese and enjoys the earthiness of mushrooms and beetroot.
It is also just a beautiful wine in your glass.
Price: The 2020 La Motte Millennium is available online or at the La Motte Tasting Room at R110 per bottle.
Recipes: Try the 2020 La Motte Millennium with one of our recipes:
- Slow Roasted Lamb Shoulder with Red Wine, Tomatoes, Baby Onions, Garlic & Thyme
- Aubergine and Ricotta Cannelloni with Tomato and Rosemary Fondue
- Beetroot Salad with Feta, Orange and Nuts
