IMW Auction: South Africa super lot trip
Ken Lamb, the successful bidder for the South African Super Lot in the Institute of Masters of Wine Auction 2017 – and his guests Mimi Aye and Gary and Anne Vollen – took up their lot during the first week of March. Accompanied by Cathy van Zyl MW, the group stayed at Jordan Luxury Suites for five nights while experiencing the Cape’s magnificent scenery, changeling weather, exquisite cuisine and exciting wines. Putting their best feet forward were Hamilton-Russell Vineyards, Jordan Wines, Delaire Graff Estate, Paul Cluver Wines, Shannon Vineyards, Boekenhoutskloof, Kleine Zalze, Meerlust, Richard Kershaw Wines, Newton Johnson Family Vineyards, Alheit Vineyards, and Vergelegen.
Cathy said: “What a week! I have seldom been so proud of South Africa, its vineyards, and its viticulturists and winemakers as I was while hosting Ken, Mimi, Gary and Ann. It was a treat to be in the company of such friendly and knowledgeable wine people; as one winemaker said ‘Really enjoyed the opportunity to get so geeky!’ We all look forward to welcoming them back – and we hope it is soon. Sincere thanks to everyone who helped make this a trip to remember.”
Ken added: “What an extraordinary week of incredible wines and convivial company topped off by an unforgettable dinner at the end of the week at Cathy’s house featuring delicious, traditional South African dishes and featuring Richard Kershaw MW, Newton Johnson and Alheit wines along with their proprietors where we did, indeed, get very geeky! Huge thanks on behalf of myself and my guests to Cathy for her efforts throughout the week and as host.”