Seasalter used to be merely a name – a fitting appellation for a serene coastal town in Kent, UK. However, a transformative shift occurred a few years back, reshaping the very essence of Seasalter. The outcome, still characterized by a relaxed demeanor but devoid of tranquility, emerged as Seasalter, a boldly West Coast wine brand that is now making waves in new markets, reshaping perceptions about South African Sauvignon Blanc.
Seasalter stands as the acclaimed flagship Sauvignon Blanc from Groote Post, subtly enriched with oak and Semillon. This historical Darling Hills estate, distinguished by its awards and reputation, crafts yet another wine that captivates through its narrative, terroir, and flavor.
The tale began with Nick Pentz and the sea. In 2013, while on a wine marketing journey to the UK, Groote Post’s owner, Nick, ventured into the quaint medieval village of Seasalter, known for its historical significance in salt production during the Iron Age.
“The name Seasalter struck a chord with me, as it echoed the icy Atlantic Ocean overlooking Groote Post,” Nick elaborates. “I knew then that the name Seasalter would weave its way into the fabric of Groote Post, although the precise form it would take remained a mystery.”
“Lukas Wentzel, our winemaker, had been experimenting with Sauvignon Blanc, partial oak maturation, and the introduction of Semillon for some time. Lukas eventually approached me with a unique top-quality wine he was eager to bottle – the 2015 vintage of Sauvignon Blanc/Semillon.”
LIVING UP TO THE LEGACY OF SEASALT
Seasalter was met with acclaim from both consumers and critics. The inaugural limited-edition release in 2015, along with subsequent vintages, achieved instant success. Notably, the last four Seasalter vintages earned substantial recognition, including the FNB Sauvignon Blanc SA Top 10 in 2019, a gold medal at the 2020 Michelangelo International Wine & Spirits Awards, another gold medal at the 2021 Concours Mondial du Sauvignon, and the Sauvignon Blanc Trophy at the 2021 Old Mutual Trophy Wine Show. The anticipation for #Seasalter2022 is substantial.
“September heralds the much-anticipated release of our new vintage of Seasalter,” states Peter Pentz, Groote Post’s Communication Manager. “We are equally thrilled about the Seasalter brand and the new vintage. It is a truly exquisite wine, and our winemaker, Lukas, has once again surpassed expectations this year with the wine’s quality and exquisite minerality. Consumers adore the brand, and we are eagerly looking forward to a summer filled with Seasalter celebrations as everyone enjoys life to the fullest.”
Lukas Wentzel, Groote Post’s winemaker since 2000, is enthusiastic about the 2022 vintage, crafted from grapes sourced from six distinct sites on the estate. The cooler season extended the ripening process, allowing the grapes to develop richer flavors. “Seasalter presents a complex bouquet of citrus, grapefruit, green apples, and vibrant lime acidity. The wine boasts fruit purity, a distinctive minerality, hints of Darling fynbos, and a lingering saline finish. Crisp, bold, and invigorating, Seasalter harmonizes splendidly with hearty vegetable dishes. Dishes like ravioli with herbed tomato sauce or pasta with olive oil, lemon, and fresh tomatoes, as well as most fish courses, complement the wine’s green flavors to perfection.”
Seasalter not only graces award-winning wine lists but also thrives in beachfront settings, now amplified by the introduction of the novel SeasalterXPlakkie collaboration. “Seasalter is a brand that sparks exciting opportunities,” affirms Peter Pentz. “And what could be more exhilarating than collaborating with the quintessentially South African Plakkie brand, creators of the beloved Veldskoen.”
Plakkie, a locally crafted world-class flip-flop, embodies a spirited South African character. “The conception of Plakkie coincided with the launch of Veldskoen in 2016,” notes Creative Director Anna Greenfield. “We celebrate the essence of ‘South African-ness’ through humor, kindness, optimism, and the pursuit of innovative ideas that invigorate our nation.”
“Our collaborations are exclusively with businesses that share our values. Seasalter, a vibrant young brand rooted in the heritage of an established wine estate, resonates with the spirit of Plakkie. Through Seasalter, we find a reflection of our aspirations for Plakkie. Unity enhances our strength. Collaborating with Seasalter on this stylish venture has been an exciting endeavor for us,” Greenfield adds.
“When you wear Seasalter X Plakkie, you essentially embody the brand – sea, sand, summer, and fun,” Peter states. “It’s an exceptional piece of merchandise, available on our website and at our cellar door for an incredible value of R250 per pair. Designed for the enjoyment of life and, of course, to savor Seasalter in style, this collaboration between two exceptional brands has brought forth a remarkable initiative.”
Seasalter embodies meticulous craftsmanship and thoughtful dedication. It is a game-changer that consistently defies conventions, moving from silver to gold, double gold, 93 Tim Atkin points, and beyond.
