We were excited to receive the news of the release of the 175 wines that are now available for purchase.  Joc Wrensch from the College had the following to say about the OD Wine Collaboration:

For our 175 year we have just released four wines, through a collaboration with four OD wine-makers. Bruce Jack, Sir De Villiers Graaff, John Loubser and Gus Allen are all ODs who are well-known in the wine industry, and have incidentally all themselves had sons at Bishops. They have put together a spectacular collection of four wines (two reds, one white and an MCC) which are available for sale. Please visit our 175 Wine Project website to find out more about each wine or to purchase them. Do click on each wine to find out more about each, its pedigree as well as some critiques on each. Sales are via the Wade Bales Wine Club, in boxes of 6. You will also find these wines served at most school functions during the course of this year. This really has been an exciting project and we are delighted with the quality of the wines, which have been made especially for our 175 celebration.

1 - The Mite Red brought to us by Bruce Jack (1987G)

In honor of the 175th celebration, The Drift Estate presents The Mitre Red, a friendly and juicy Bordeaux variety blend consisting of Cabernet Sauvignon (44%), Merlot (37%), and Petit Verdot (19%). This blend is enjoyable now but holds the potential to surprise with its aging capability, developing complexity over the next 5 to 8 years.

The wine is a special once-off blend crafted by Bruce Jack, a seasoned winemaker with a trailblazing reputation. Bruce, known for his ventures in various wine projects globally, planted his own vineyards in the Overberg Highlands in 2000. Bruce's consistent production of significant and elegant wines spans from his early award-winning wines at Flagstone to boutique wines from The Drift Estate.

2 - The Sauvignon Blanc brought to us by Sir De Villiers Graaff (1988F)

To celebrate its 175th anniversary, De Grendel has crafted a delightful Sauvignon Blanc for 2023, featuring 90% Sauvignon Blanc and 10% Semillon. This wine is a fine representation of De Grendel's renowned Sauvignon Blanc, perfect for enjoying on a warm summer day.

Sir De Villiers Graaff, the 4th Baronet and owner of De Grendel Wine Estate, is a notable South African businessman recognized for producing award-winning wines. The estate, in the Graaff family for four generations, established vineyards in 2000, releasing their first wines in 2003. This Sauvignon Blanc Semillon blend pairs well with butter chicken or can be enjoyed ice-cold with fresh apple pie and cream.

3 - The Commemorative Cap Classique brought to us by John Loubser (1985F)

To mark the 175th celebration, Silverthorn has crafted the Commemorative MCC, a Méthode Cap Classique made exclusively from 100% Colombar grapes sourced from 30 to 40-year-old vineyards. Notably, 50% of the base wine underwent fermentation in Acacia barrels.

This MCC, a perfect choice for sparkling occasions, reflects the dedication of John Loubser and his family-led team.

John, with a background as a cellar master at prestigious wineries, has played a pivotal role at Silverthorn since 2018, earning the brand top awards for signature MCCs like The Genie, The Green Man, and The Jewelbox. Silverthorn Wines has established itself as a world-class Cap Classique brand and destination.

4 - The 175 Bordeaux-styled blend brought to us by Gus Allen (1982F)

Constantia Glen has created a special Bordeaux-styled blend named The 175 for their 175th celebration. The 2020 vintage comprises Malbec (40%), Cabernet Franc (30%), Petit Verdot (20%), and Cabernet Sauvignon (10%), aged for 16 months in French oak. It is recommended for immediate enjoyment during special occasions or for aging, such as a son's 21st birthday.

Gus Allen, the founder, grew up on a Stellenbosch wine farm and, along with his wife's family, transformed their estate into Constantia Glen Wine Estate. Gus, a wealth manager, collaborated with winemaker Justin van Wyk (2003S) to establish a label of exceptional quality, earning international acclaim since their first plantings in 2000.

From L to R: Legendary Maths teacher Tom Fair, Gus Allen (1982F)  and Ray Wilson (1981G) about to enjoy the first bottle of The 175 celebration red wine.

Tom's grandson started at college this year. He is pictured above on the right with Gus Allen.

To PURCHASE one or all of these delicious wines CLICK HERE

Note that all the Bishops 175 Celebration wines are exclusively available through Wade Bales.