This tempting wine produced from cool vineyards in Hemel-en-Aarde Ridge, Walker Bay.
Climate
These Walker Bay vineyards of Hemel en Aarde Ridge are situated within close proximity to the Atlantic Ocean. The maritime climate being more “temperate” in style, where parallel mountain ranges channel the southerly sea breezes through the appellation during the summer. These winds in turn bring regular sea mists and overcast conditions to the valley and with it more even temperatures. The average temperature is 19° C and rainfall, approximately, 750mm per year.
Production
1800 cases of 6 x 750ml bottles
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Varietal and Origin Hemel en Aarde Shiraz (100%) |
Vines per hectare 5500 |
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Soil Type Deep Clay soils of the Bokkeveld series |
Average Yield 8 tons/ha |
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Aspect North and North West |
Age of Vines 6 years |
Harvest details
The 2 blocks of Shiraz were harvested separately by hand enjoying cool early morning temperatures. The grapes were harvested in 2 different batches throughout March. This was carried out in order to achieve a more complex wines profile. One block was managed with more dappled light in the canopy to ensure spicy aromas and a savoury element and the other block with greater fruit exposure to sunlight for primary fruit weight and intensity.
Analysis
| Alcohol by volume | Total Acidity | pH | Volatile Acid | Residual Sugar |
| 14.9% | 5.8 g/l | 3.45 | 0.72 g/l | 2.6 g/l |
Technical Notes
After overnight cold storage grapes were de-stemmed and crushed into red ferment tanks. Cold maceration occurred for 3 – 7 days. The wine was then fermented under controlled temperatures until dry. The skins were then lightly pressed and the wine racked into a selection of French Oak Barriques (25% new barrels) for 12 months ageing and maturation. Final blending occurred 2 months prior to bottling and the wine was allowed to develop further in bottle prior to release.
Styling
This elegant expression of cool climate Syrah exhibits soft plum, dark cherry and complex spicy notes of pepper, cinnamon, cloves and crushed coriander. The palate is full and lush, broad on entry and rich in dark fruits.. Enjoy now or for the next 5 years.