Deetlef's 1974 MUSCAT D'ALEXANDRIE

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. The next batch of Deetlefs' Muscat D'Alexandrie will only become available in 2028.

Only 2 bottles left available at Manuka - price of R31,000 per bottle.
Enquiries email info@manuka.co.za