News
57 Main Street Wins the Exclusive Rights to Import Vergelegen, a “Gem” of South African Winemaking, Owned by Anglo American
01/27/05
Garden City, NY, January 27, 2005 – “57 Main Street” Wine Co. has further solidified its business position as the leading importer of South African wines in the United States. Following a competitive bidding process, 57 Main Street has been awarded the exclusive rights to import Vergelegen wines to the United States. A coveted line of superior wines, Vergelegen has never been available in this country before.
Vergelegen, meaning "situated far away," has a storied history dating back to 1685. Once owned by the first Dutch governor of South Africa, Simon Van der Stel, the property passed through several prominent families before its acquisition by the world-renowned Anglo American Corporation, global producers of gold (AngloGold Ashanti), platinum (Anglo American Platinum), and diamonds (De Beers Consolidated). Located in Sommerset West, the Vergelegen estate is a precious commodity in the wine world; the property overlooks False Bay, and has retained its historic charm, presenting visitors with a stately homestead in the Cape Dutch tradition and a fertile valley where fruit trees, vegetables and grape vines thrive.
Under the skilled hand of winemaker André van Rensburg, Vergelegen vineyards have produced a succession of award-winning wines, recognized among the finest in the world. In 2003 the London International Wine & Spirit Competition awarded Vergelegen 2000 the Comtesse Lalande trophy for best blended red wine in the world. This is the second time in two years that this honor has been accorded to Vergelegen, an unprecedented achievement for South African wines.
According to Peter Morales, President of “57 Main Street” Wine Co, “The stewardship of Vergelegen wines in the United States is a tremendous honor and opportunity for our company. Vergelegen has long been regarded as a gem among Cape wineries, and we look forward to sharing these world-class wines with Americans.”
“57 Main Street” Wine Co. will carry a complete range of Vergelegen white and red selections, including: Chardonnay, Chardonnay Reserve, Sauvignon Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc Reserve, Vergelegen White (67% Semillon, 33% Sauvignon Blanc), Mill Race (a blend of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon), Cabernet Sauvignon, Reserve Shiraz and Vergelegen, a classic Bordeaux blend.
Sample Requests and Interview Opportunities
The principals of Vergelegen are planning their first U.S. tour in spring 2005, with the goal of introducing media, trade and consumers to their wines. Dates and markets for the tour will be announced.