This Stellenbosch Pinotage is a single-vineyard expression from 30-year-old bush vines, meticulously crafted by Abrie Beeslaar. Grown in shale, Oakleaf, and decomposed granite soils with supplementary drip irrigation, the yield was 6 tons per hectare. The 2023 vintage, despite a warm start, achieved optimal phenolic ripeness.
Winemaking:
Handpicked grapes underwent open-top concrete fermentation with manual punch-downs before 3 days of skin contact. The wine then matured for 20 months in French oak barrels (50% new, 50% second fill), following malolactic fermentation. This wine has a 15-20 year ageing potential.
Tasting Notes:
A vivid ruby colour introduces a captivating aroma of red currants, ripe raspberry, black cherry compote, and cranberries, nuanced by cedarwood, dried herbs, and spice. The palate is lavish, revealing layers of juicy dark plum and red cherry fruit, framed by delicate French oak, aromatic spices, and an earthy, herbal touch. Notes of velvety cocoa, forest berries, and exotic spice add complexity, seamlessly integrated with the refined oak. Elegant and intricate, the wine offers a long finish and the structure for excellent ageing.