Introducing Pardus - A New Cub In The Leopard's Leap Litter

Pardus is the Latin for panther or leopard and of course a fitting name for a new addition to the Leopard’s Leap collection of wines.

For Leopard’s Leap CEO Hein Koegelenberg, however, this red blend is more than a new option in the versatile range of wines: “Not only was Pardus born from a desire to make my own wine again, but it also acknowledges a commitment to the protection of our natural treasures - especially through our support of the Cape Leopard Trust and the plight of the vulnerable Cape Mountain Leopard.”

Inspired by the King of the Cape Mountains, the 2018 Pardus expresses the magnificent cat’s charismatic play between intensity and elegance, while being gently approachable. Our national treasures do, however, extend to more than the splendour of the big cats. It also includes the natural beauty and the exceptional biodiversity of the Winelands - something to share and enjoy in a wine that represents the intricacies of this terroir.

The 2018 Pardus is an elegant wine, beautifully balancing lively fruit and well-considered oak. “If you, like myself, get excited about a delicious red blend that you can enjoy as part of an everyday quality lifestyle, I hope you might enjoy Pardus”, concluded Hein.

Wine information:

Name: 2018 Pardus by Hein Koegelenberg

Blend: 60% Merlot (Stellenbosch) / 20% Cabernet Sauvignon (Paarl) / 20% Cinsaut (Darling)

Vinification & Maturation: Grapes were hand-picked and hand-sorted. Each variety was fermented and matured separately. The Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon were matured in a combination of new and used French oak barrels for 18 months and the Cinsaut for 12 months.

Winemaker’s Impressions: Layered and multi-dimensional on the nose. Lively red and purple fruit as well as subtle spice follow through on the palate. Beautifully balanced, it makes for a well-structured and elegant wine. A sophisticated glass on its own and beautiful with the earthiness of mushrooms and herbs, mild and sweet spice such as Cape Malay curries and the complexity of matured hard cheese.

Price: Introductory offer for June 2021: R170. From 1 July: R180. Available from Leopard’s Leap Tasting Room or online.

Analysis:
Alc: 13.5%Vol
TA: 6.1 g/l
pH: 3.47
RS: 3.2 g/l

Download Detailed Tasting Notes

Pardus and Conservation: The soaring mountains that frame our Franschhoek vineyards are home to many of nature’s territorial roamers. One of them is the shy but imposing leopard, Panthera Pardus. By sponsoring satellite mapping, we assist in revealing the mysteries and meanders of the Cape Mountain Leopard, one of which was named Pardus by the Cape Leopard Trust in recognition for the cooperation with the Leopard’s Leap wine brand. At the same time, by practicing ancient processes, we uncover the full dimension of our regional wine varieties. It’s all part of our contribution towards preserving the art of winemaking alongside the natural treasures of the Cape.

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For more information on the various wines or the family-friendly offering at Leopard’s Leap Family Vineyards, kindly visit www.leopardsleap.co.za or contact +27 (0)21 876 8002.