bordeauxroom (This is how the French say it. Just add “room” at the end) took the Stormers team on a little wine blending expedition out into Franschhoek last week.  I tell you some interesting blends came out of that…  In fact, most of the boys were pretty impressive with their concoctions but there were definitely a couple of, “this tastes so ‘k*k’ my face is starting to pull in funny directions” blends.

Either way it was a fantastic experience and I can recommend it to anyone keen to get out and do something a little different!  ”Get involved!”

A few words from the proprietor himself, David Wibberley:

With the Stormers not being able to put down the tackle bags and have much time for social activities during their preparation, Bordeauxroom in collaboration with Haut Espoir Wine Estate gave the Super 14 contenders an opportunity to bond as a unit with a Red Wine Blending Competition.

We were super impressed with the organization of Bordeauxroom and were excited at the prospect of having the boys in the cellar doing their thing, and a unique challengte was set to them.

Teamed up in several teams ranging from the “Gentle Giants” to the “High Hopes” , the day was a great success in all with all members of the Estate getting involved, with Winemaker Nikey van Zyl not giving away too many tips to the ever pressing Front Rowers.

There were some contended developments as each player participating in contributing to their teams blend consisting of all 5 Bordeaux varietals. With percentages measured out as accurately as possible, the hour time limit was used right until the last second to ensure that their team blend would stand up to the tasting panels critical assessment.

With a very discerning Judges Panel at hand the task ahead was certainly not for the faint hearted, kind of like the feeling of taking on the Crusaders Front Row. All teams certainly made the effort and there were some Wines that were even considered for a Haut Espoir Estate Blend. In the end the top 3 had to be blind tasted with all 3 pleasantly inseparable. The Winning Team ‘ Petit V ‘ which became the ‘ Petit III ‘ consisted of Willem de Waal, Dylan des Fountain and Dewaldt Elstadt. Although there were some cries of ‘Cheat-ah’s from the unplaced teams, with a certain flyhalf having a degree in Viticulture.

Special mention must go to Colcacchio’s Franschhoek and Jack Black Beer to providing some gap fillers for the Team and a refreshing palate cleanser for Boys in Blue.

A fantastic day had by all in the end, and we hope to see some of the better blends at dinner parties in the near future.

Borde{aux}room from Francois Louw on Vimeo.

credit to Francois Louw for much of the article, the pictures and the video. Francois has a close association with Bordeauxroom. Have a look at his site.