An intense and well structured wine with notes of dried fruits and ground coffee complemented by graphite on the finish.
Producer Note
Big open skies, arid deserts, the vast flowing landscape, with its unforgiving climate and rugged bush vines, this is wild country, this is Swartland. The contrast with manicured Constantia and oh-so-cool Stellenbosch couldn't be greater. But right now, Swartland is the most exciting wine region in South Africa. A new wave of winemakers are making ground-breaking wines from Rhône varietals and it is part of a revolution that has got everybody talking. The Swartland Winery is producing iconic and award winning wines in this fashionable and dynamic region, so we have joined forces with them to create a unique, distinctive and expressive wine range that has been masterfully blended for the UK palate. We think something this good, is definitely worth talking about!
Vintage
The 2018 vintage was characterised by extreme drought but very little disease on the grapes, thus ensuring very healthy grapes and low yields. This all contributed to complex and concentrated flavour profiles.
Vineyard
The grapes come from 100% old bushvines in the Swartland region. This hot, dry climate has an average temperature range of 25°C to 35°C and an annual rainfall of between 450 mm and 600mm, but the altitude of the vineyard, at 300 metres above sea level, creates a cooler oasis in this arid landscape. The vineyard is managed using minimal intervention and environmentally friendly farming practices. The vines are grown in granitic soils, which retain the heat and promote even ripening of the fruit. These vineyard characteristics combine to produce wines which are truly expressive of the vibrant terroir.
Winemaking
The grapes were harvested at phenolic ripeness and then cold soaked for three days. The must was inoculated with selected yeasts and underwent four pump-overs per day during the fermentation process. Malolactic fermentation took place in barrel, followed by eight months ageing in second and third fill barrels.
Tasting Note
This 100% Carignan delivers aromas of dried cranberry and raspberry complemented by hints of liquorice and baking spice. Rich and smooth on the palate, the elegant tannins frame the fruit through to a hint of graphite on the finish.
Grape
Carignan 100%