Wild Garden – Pinotage – 2022

ABOUT THE PRODUCER:
Produced in the Wild Garden that is the Cape Coast of South Africa, the duo of wines in the small but perfectly formed Wild Garden range, showcases the classic South African grape varieties. The Pinotage is South Africa’s signature grape variety with an easy drinking fruity style, while the Chenin Blanc with its fresh fruity flavours is very quaffable indeed.

THE VINTAGE:
A cool, wet spring delayed budding by seven to 10 days, but it was consistently good and even, while flowering occurred generally around five days later than usual. Fruit set occurred at a good tempo and was mostly even, with vine growth continuing steadily as the temperature increased in December. The 2022 wines show striking colour and flavour expression, due to a generally cooler season that allowed gradual ripening and balancing acidity.

ABOUT THE VINEYARD:
The grapes come from carefully selected vineyards in the Swartland and Pederberg in the Cape Coast region. This hot, dry climate has an average temperature range of 25°C to 35°C and an annual rainfall of 450mm and 600mm, but the altitude of these vineyards creates a cool oasis in this arid landscape. The Atlantic Ocean lies around 20 miles to the west and this has a significant cooling and moderating effect on the climate. The rolling hills average around 140 metres above sea level, however, the superior influence on the wine is from the various soil formations, namely shale, schist, granite and iron stone. These ancient soils vary greatly in the percentage of clay, mineral content and organic matter. This Chenin Blanc is from a combination of these soils, which adds layers of fruit and complexity. Exposure to spring and summer winds create a healthy environment with little intervention needed to keep the vines healthy.

THE WINEMAKING PROCESS:
The grapes were fermented in temperature controlled stainless steel vats to ensure maximum freshness and to preserve the purity of fruit. The wine was matured without oak influence to produce a juicy, fruity style which showcases the nuances of the Pinotage variety.

OUR TASTING NOTES:
A smooth and juicy Pinotage from South Africa’s signature variety, delivering vibrant fruity notes of bright plummy and brambly fruit through to a lively finish.

GRAPE VARIETY:
Pinotage 100%.