This Weisser Riesling from shy-bearing vineyards that are situated in Hemel en Aarde Ridge. The wine is a clear and true reflection of the potential of the unique terroir of our Babylon Farm.
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.
Origin
Hemel-en-Aarde Ridge
Variety
Weisser Riesling 100 % Hemel en Aarde Ridge, Walker Bay
Trellising System Vertical Shoot Positioning (Perold) |
Vines per hectare 5400 |
Aspect South East |
Average Yield 5 tons/ha |
Age of Vines 9 years |
Harvest details All grapes were harvested by hand in cool early morning temperatures. |
Analysis Alcohol by volume 11.26% |
Total Acidity 7.7 g/L |
pH 3.15 |
Volatile Acid 0.23 g/L |
Residual Sugar 4.6 g/L |
Soil Type Planted to Argillaceous Shale of the Bokkeveld Series |
Technical Notes
The Weisser Riesling grapes are harvested early in the morning to ensure optimal quality. The cool bunches were then whole bunch pressed to ensure clean juice without extracting harsh phenolic characters. The juice was cold settled for 2 days, racked and inoculated. The fermentation was kept cool to ensure clean, crisp flavours. A short time on lees to help broaden the flavour profile was followed by final filtration and bottling.
Styling The wine is made in a crisp, clean style that allows the lovely citrus characters of lemon and lime to shine, complemented by the underlying mineral core of the wine. Lovely floral notes evolve as the wine matures which, in time, will soften and broaden to subtle terpene characters. A hint of residual sugar will soften the tight acids and make a lovely pairing with mildly spiced dishes. Enjoy this style wine with spicy and perfumed stir fry’s and eastern salads.