THE HIGHEST PRICE PAID FOR A 375ML BOTTLE OF SOUTH AFRICAN WINE

At the auction held on behalf of the charity WARMTH (War against Malnutrition, Tuberculosis and Hunger) in Italy, a 25-year-old bottle of Deetlefs' 1974 Muscat D'Alexandrie was auctioned for the remarkable sum of 3,130 Euros or thirty one thousand Rand.  This is a record for a 375ml bottle of South African wine.

Deetlef's Muscat D'Alexandrie came into existence as the result of a wager between the late Phillipus Petrus Deetlefs Wine Estate and a winemaker friend.  Deetlefs was convinced that it was possible to mature a Muscat D'Alexandrie or Hanepoot grape, as it is known locally, for a significant length of time.  His friend, however, was unconvinced so Deetlefs filled a third of a tank with Hanepoot lees and two thirds with fortified Hanepoot wine and closed it down for 25 years.

Twenty-five years later, the resulting wine was opened, bottled and a limited amount of 2,000 bottles launched onto the market.  The result is a unique and brilliant flavored wine with a delicate bouquet.  Deetlefs' Muscat D'Alexandrie won a Gold Michael Angelo Award in 2002.  With its stunning packaging, which enhances the quality, this wine is fast becoming a collector's item for anyone lucky enough to obtain a bottle at only R550 per bottle.  The next batch of Deetlefs' Muscat D'Alexandrie will only become available in 2028.

Manuka was privileged to have been recently asked by Deetlefs Estate to provide our venue for the media release.  This happened with SABC TV, many high profile wine writers, various local media and wine and food editors joined us in listening to a talk by Kobus Deetlefs, owner and wine maker as he presented his wines to us.

Already many bottles have been sold. Currenty price only R550/bottle.  We have limited stocks.  You should buy NOW while it is available at this price. We have no doubt that the price will climb dramatically soon.