in the vineyard : Seven leading vineyard owners in the Durbanville Hills district joined together to create Durbanville Hills together with Distell to promote the regional individuality of this prime wine growing area, punctuated by hills. In close proximity to the cold Atlantic Ocean, it boasts a temperate climate with Atlantic sea breezes cooling the vines during the summer months. Grapes for this brand, which has already attracted widespread positive attention both in South Africa and abroad, are sourced only from these growers, all of whom fall under the limited appellation of Durbanville. All member vineyards subscribe to IPW (Integrated Production of Wine) growing practices, designed to sustain natural resources. Meticulous crop control applied to these vineyards further limits yields and promotes concentration of varietal flavour, encouraging a process of natural selection. Winemaker Martin Moore uses highly advanced cellar technology to ensure optimal extraction of colour and flavour.
This single-vineyard wine takes its name from Biesjes Craal, an early outpost in what is now Milnerton, where salt was collected and oxen outspanned to graze and rest.
The grapes for this wine came from a steep south-facing vineyard. The vines situated at an altitude of 320 m, grow in deep, red soil and yield grapes with a dusty flavour, reminiscent of the cooler Cape Sauvignon Blancs.
about the harvest: The grapes were harvested by hand at 20,5° Balling in the first week of February, with prominent grassy flavours, reminiscent of New Zealand cool climate Sauvignon Blancs.