Laytons are pleased to bring you the following range of wines from Vergelegen:
Sauvignon Blanc
Chardonnay
Flagship White
Merlot
Cabernet Sauvignon
Flagship Red
One of the flagship estates in South African wine scene. The huge investment here is clear to see producing a beautiful winery, homestead and garden.
The winery, set into the top of a 276 metre high hill with a 360˚ view, which links to the homestead garden which dates back to 1700. The winery has been designed to facilitate gravity flow, rather than the more invasive procedure of pumping. Being set into the hill also helps create an even, low temperature in the winery and cellar.
This is a property with a long history. Created by Governor Willem Adriaan van der Stel, Vergelegen was established around 1700, before van der Stel was ousted by his political enemies and sent back to Holland. During the six year period he was here the wilderness was transformed into fruit orchards, orange groves, vineyards and cattle stations. He also made reservoirs and dug irrigation canals. Subsequent owners came and went, and in the early 20th century the vineyards were removed. In 1987 Anglo American Farms purchased the property from the then owners, and created the farm as it is today, with 125 hectares of orchards (pears, plums and soft citrus) and 100 hectares of vineyards. Following the comprehensive planting program, Vergelegen produced its first wine in 1992. Two winemakers have held the helm: Martin Meinert (1988–1997) and the current cellarmaster, Andre van Rensburg.
Vergelegen has won over 200 awards here are just some of the awards won in recent years:
| Wine Magazine SA 2004-2008 | Best Winery |
| Old Mutual Trophy Wine Show SA 2009 | GOLD Vergelegen Red 2004 |
| Old Mutual Trophy Wine Show SA 2008 | GOLD Vergelegen White 2005 |
| IWSC 2008 | GOLD Vergelegen Red 2003 |
| SILVER Chardonnay Reserve 2007 Vergelegen V 2005 | |
| John Platter Guide 2008 | 5 STARS Vergelegen White 2006 |
| 4.5 STARS Chardonnay Reserve 2007 | |
| Cabernet Sauvignon 2004 | |
| Merlot 2004 | |
| Vergelegen Red 2003 | |
| Sauvignon Blanc Reserve 2006 | |
| Vergelegen V 2003 |
The new range of wines launched at 'The Commander' tasting were selected as a response to the much needed gap in the market for low cost high calibre products which do not compromise on quality but allow the restaurateur to maintain an excellent selection of choice. The downturn in the economy may be a reality but the assumption that people are not drinking as much is a myth. Consumers are merely being a little more prudent with their cash, hence the reticence to spend an extra £3 on a bottle of house wine.
The new additions were initially short-listed by our MW led buying team from a group of potential winners and then further assessed on their relative merits based on three major criteria; Quality, Value and Consistency. A strong focus was driven towards flourishing wine producing countries, outside of the Euro zone such as Hungary and Bulgaria. Amongst those sourced from Eastern Europe include three superb Hungarians averaging at £4 a bottle; Corvinus Chardonnay, Amber Road Sauvignon Blanc and Dry Plains Riesling. The wines originate from a region of great wine making tradition dating back to the middle ages called Neszmély (pronounced Nesmee): During the past decade the modernisation of grape production has resulted in a substantial improvement of the quality of wine produced, hence a rise in the ranking of the wine region. All three make excellent house whites and offer the customer a charming glass of well-made affordable wine.
The Sicilian Fiano and Pinot Noir were 'surprising discoveries' and 'offered best value for money in their respective categories,' (Neil Sommerfelt, Buying Director MW). With Sicliy's warm temperatures, hilly terrain, sea breezes and rich soil, it was no surprise that the two wines proved to be immediate hits with a large majority of our customers. As a result of their first public showing the Pinot Noir has secured several listings and significant interest has been expressed towards the Fiano which was not available at this price from any other European source.
The ability to maintain low prices, yet still provide high quality wines, serve to reinforce Laytons as one of London's most competitive and major on-trade suppliers.
A big thank you goes out to the Commander Staff for making the day a great success and allowing us to use such an excellent venue.
back to topWe've been spring cleaning our warehouse and as a result we're offering some fantastic deals on some old vintages of our best sellers. In addition to a special discount price there is a free stock offer running – buy any 15 mixed cases of the listed wines and get one of these cases free. Please contact us for the full list of wines and their discount prices. As a taster - here are a few of the wines included in this offer.
Available in the UK for the first time, Laytons are proud to present a new South African agency – Diemersdal.
With a range that perfectly expresses the terroir of the distinct Durbanville landscape, Diemersdal is a real gem of an estate promising exciting wines at enticing prices. Family-run for the past six generations of the Louw family, the 180 hectares of vines are now tended by Tienne (who began work on the land at Diemersdal 33 years ago with his father) and his son Mathys. Together with a new addition to the team, Mari van der Merwe, Mathys saw four gold medals awarded to the Diemersdal wines at the Stellenbosch, Michelangelo Awards in September 2007. It was this award-winning, distinctive nettle infused Sauvignon Blanc that first attracted Laytons to explore the complete range that includes a stunning, traditional Pinotage, Chardonnay, Shiraz, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon as well as three perfectly crafted blends.
Seven new house wines to update your selection
Keep your range of wines by the glass fresh with something from the range of Laytons new house wines. All those below are exclusive to Laytons and under £5.00 (ex. VAT), these wines offer real flavour and interest for their price. Please contact us if you would like to try some of these new wines on learn more about our range of house wines.
There’s a new MW in our midst…
Our very own Peter Mitchell from the Restaurant and Hotel sales team has completed and passed his MW qualification - well done Peter!
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