Holden Manz Wine Estate was founded in Franschhoek, South Africa, in 2010 by Gerard Holden and Migo Manz. They aimed to create outstanding wines from noble grape varietals, drawing inspiration from their travels to renowned wine regions worldwide. The estate, nestled between the Franschhoek and Stoney Brook rivers, benefits from a unique terroir that yields remarkable red, white, rosé, and fortified wines.
Located in the top, southern-most corner of the Franschhoek Valley, in the embrace of its spectacular mountains, the 22 hectare Holden Manz Wine Estate is situated between the Franschhoek River and Stony Brook at 300 meters above sea level. An exclusive grower of red grapes, the Estate only cultivates its top 16 hectares under vineyards, notably Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Syrah and Merlot. Long, cold and wet winters allow the vines to rest well, while hot dry summers and a gentle autumn allows for slow ripening. Featuring a rich and diverse terroir influenced by its unique natural surroundings, with 3 different soil types and a marked seasonal climate, the estate’s vineyards are perfectly suited to our intention – the production of ultra-premium wines made for the discerning wine connoisseur.
Elysium - The forth vintage of this unique co-fermented wine is only possible due to the rare occurrence of Merlot and Syrah ripening at the same time on the Holden Manz farm in Franschhoek. Co-fermented Merlot(50%) and Syrah(50%) harvested 20 March 2020, spontaneous fermentation in 225L French oak, cuvaison ~55 days, matured 29 months, only 900 bottles produced. This wine is something exceptional and an age worthy wine, a must have for any serious collector of wines. From the moment the wines is opened the quality shines. The aromatics are full and nose tingling, the black cherry, chocolate and strawberry notes are intoxicating. On the palate the richness of the wine is ever apparent, notes of mocha, anise, nutmeg, vanilla, cedar box, blueberry, white truffles encompass the entire palate. The tannins while big and rich are well integrated with matching acidity to give this wine a long life in the cellar close to 20 years if you can hold on to them that long.
