Swartland WO
This wine is a blend of old, dryland bush vine grapes from the western side of Paardeberg. The majority, 85%, comes from vines planted in 1966, with the rest from vines planted in 1980. These old vines have adapted over decades to produce exceptional grapes in tough conditions, resulting in a wine that is a true expression of its terroir. In the cellar, the grapes are destemmed and pressed, then left to settle overnight. The 1966 portion is fermented and aged in a concrete tank, while the 1980 portion is fermented in a 500-liter French oak barrel. Both parcels spend 10 months on their lees without bâtonnage.
Christian Eedes, Winemag.co.za 95/100:
Grapes from a 1966 Paardeberg vineyards. Peach, gentle citrus, herbs and leesy complexity on the nose. Broad and textural on the palate with integrated acidity and a gently savoury finish. Appears richer than the stated alcohol of 13.1% suggests – full of this winemaker’s quiet confidence, even so.
