I’ve been spending a lot of my free time during lock-down in The Little Kitchen, trying out recipes I’ve been saving in my dog-eared flip-file for one day. Middelvlei Wines gave me the perfect canvas against which to create and cook with their stunning range of Rooster wines.
Introduction
Brothers Ben and Tinnie Momberg apply the knowledge passed down to them through three generations of winemaking to produce wine of exceptional quality and reputation.
As a family vineyard, the Mombergs ensure that the lessons passed down from father to son are preserved and respected. All while still accommodating modern trends and new techniques in the winemaking industry. The beautiful 160-hectare farm is famous for its red cultivars. Tinnie has showcased his talents with his specialty, the Free-run Pinotage, a unique wine made through natural, un-pressed processes which set it apart from its peers (https://middelvlei.co.za/our-story/).
Background
I’m not a “summer-white, winter-red” person. I believe you should drink what brings you happiness and joy, regardless of the season. And for me there’s always a space for a Sauvignon Blanc in winter, as it allows me to reminisce of warmer days and pool-side evenings.
I do believe winter is a time for comforting, wholesome meals that warm you from the inside out. For Middelvlei‘s Rooster Sauvignon Blanc, I chose to pair a slow cooker herbed chicken and rice pilaf with this crisp, zesty white.
Click here to read my review on Middelvlei’s unoaked Chardonnay 2019!
Middelvlei Rooster Sauvignon Blanc 2019
Tinnie describes the Rooster Sauvignon Blanc 2019 as a crisp fresh wine which presents with a medley of tropical fruit aromas. I find that chicken loves the juicy flavours of tropical fruit. It adds a beautiful sweetness and light freshness to the meal. This Sauvignon Blanc is also a fan of earthy herbs, and laps up the subtle spiciness of the dish.
Tasting notes: flavours of pineapple and green melon, which are perfectly balanced with subtle citrus notes resulting in a zesty lingering aftertaste.
In the vineyard: 100% Sauvignon Blanc
In the cellar: the juice received 30 minutes skin contact. 100% was tank fermented at 14 degrees Celsius.
Cellar door price: approx. R90 a bottle from the Tasting Room
Slow cooker herbed chicken and rice pilaf
You can also use an Instant Pot if you don’t have a slow cooker, or a cast iron casserole in the oven. You’ll just need to adjust the cooking times accordingly. And if you have enough to spare, you can substitute a cup of your chicken stock with a cup of Middelvlei Rooster Sauvignon Blanc to make the chicken extra juicy and tender!
The beauty of this dish and pairing lies in the simplicity of it; tender, herby chicken with fluffy rice, washed down with a clean, crisp Sauvignon Blanc. It doesn’t get much better than this.
Click here to read my review on Middelvlei’s unoaked Chardonnay 2019!
In conclusion
Sometimes, a one pot meal is exactly what is needed after a long day, but that doesn’t mean it has to be boring, bland or uninspiring. Thanks to Middelvlei‘s Rooster Sauvignon Blanc, this mid-week meal was elevated to date night status!
Thank you, Middelvlei Wines, for sharing your Rooster Sauvignon Blanc with us!
Disclaimer: I was given this product(s) as part of a press drop in exchange for my honest and truthful opinion and review thereof. All thoughts and opinions expressed herein are solely those of The Little Hedonist, given in good faith and in no way influenced by the company or its affiliates. All images, unless otherwise stated / credited, are also my own.
The Little Hedonist endorses responsible drinking.
Don’t drink and drive. Not for persons under 18.
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