Description

PRODUCER:
Bruce Jack Wines is comprised of a small, dynamic team that aims to celebrate authenticity and provenance, not just in the wine they craft, but in everything they do. Winemakers Bruce Jack and Marlize Beyers have collaborated for over two decades, since 2002, and both have extensive experience in various winemaking regions around the world. Human culture started at the tip of Africa, despite it being ‘off the charts’, so it is fitting that something as culturally rooted as wine should thrive there, inspiring the ‘Off the Charts’ wine range, crafted from grape varieties and regions that are South Africa’s viticultural cornerstones. The labels draw inspiration from the untamed majesty of the wilderness and the symbolic Basotho blanket. In 2023, Bruce Jack featured for the fourth consecutive year in the World’s Most Admired Wine Brands, an accolade awarded by the Drinks International.

VINEYARD:
The vineyards are located in various locations within Swartland, with its ‘American Wild West’ aspect on rolling rugged hills facing the sea, capturing the essence of this pioneering spirit. The area enjoys a Mediterranean-type climate with mostly red, deep soils combined with some sandy ones. Vines are mainly trellised, and the grapes are hand-harvested.

WINEMAKING:
The grapes go directly to red wine fermenters with 4 – 6 pump overs for the first 3 -4 days. After that, there are only 2 pump overs until the wine is fermented to dryness. The wine is then racked off skins, and no press juice is added, kept in full tanks until malolactic fermentation is completed, after which the wine is racked and sulphured. A portion of the wine is aged on French staves for 4 – 6 months.

VINTAGE:
The 2024 vintage in Swartland was marked by a relatively cool, dry growing season. Winter rainfall was good, providing ample water reserves. The cool conditions allowed for slow ripening, resulting in grapes with concentrated flavours and vibrant acidity. A warm, dry harvest period ensured optimal ripeness.

TASTING NOTE:
The Swartland’s warm climate and weathered soils shape this elegant Merlot, featuring vibrant red berry flavours, a whisper of herbs, and soft, supple tannins. Subtle oak adds depth to the silky, refined finish.

GRAPES:
Merlot 100%.