Situated 7 km from the ocean in the Upper Hemel-en-Aarde Valley at an elevation of 280 m, the 2.73-hectare, south-facing Artjesvlei vineyard features dry-farmed Pinot Noir (clone PN777) planted in 2008 on ancient 580-million-year-old granite bedrock with a deep clay layer that acts as a vital moisture reservoir. The grapes are hand-harvested into small crates, cooled overnight at 4°C, and carefully sorted, retaining 15% whole bunches before gravity-feeding into stainless steel fermenters. Fermentation proceeds naturally with ambient yeasts following a cold soak, using gentle, measured punch-downs for extraction. The wine matures for ten months in seven 228-litre French oak barrels (29% new), followed by brief assembly in stainless steel, racking off lees, and a further four months in barrel before autumn bottling and 16 months of pre-release maturation.
“15% whole-bunch fermentation. Matured for 11 months in barrel, 30% new. Complex aromatics of rose, fynbos, an intriguing hint of mint, musk, toasty oak and white pepper. Light-bodied, with lively acidity and fine but present tannins. Pure and taut, with pleasing tension and a particularly dry finish. Carries its 14% alcohol with ease. Should mature well.
CE’s rating: 94 | Distinctive” – Christian Eedes, Winemag.co.za
