in the vineyard : Background
Flanked by the Helderberg and Stellenbosch Mountains, between Stellenbosch and the False Bay coast, lies an exceptional tract of land that benefits from terroirs eminently suited to the cultivation of the highest quality wine grapes. This jewel in the crown of the magnificent Stellenbosch wine-growing region is known as the Golden Triangle. At its core lies Stellenzicht.
The use of sulphur dioxide (sulphite) as a preservative in wine dates back centuries. Acting as both an anti-microbial agent and an anti-oxidant, it facilitates the consistent production of good wines and aids in their ability to keep for many years under the correct conditions. As sulphites occur naturally in wines as a product of the fermentation process, it is not possible to produce a “sulphite-free” wine. With healthy fruit, good equipment, perseverance and the utmost care, it is, however, possible to produce good wines without the addition of sulphites. While the risks are much greater during their production, the end result is entirely worthwhile, especially for those wine lovers who suffer from asthma or have allergic sensitivity to sulphites.
Vineyards and climate data
The grapes were sourced from a very special vineyard planted in soils of decomposed granite (classified as “Oakleaf”) in 2001 on a site sloping very gently to the north. The entire vineyard comprises a mere 0,49 hectare with the individual vines all grafted onto nematode-resistant rootstocks of Richter 110 and trellised on a vertical six-wire fence system. The 2008 vintage was characterised by relatively normal climatic conditions with temperatures during the harvesting period being perhaps slightly higher than the norm. Rainfall was good throughout the growing and ripening seasons and, as a result, the late-ripener, Petit Verdot, benefited from the reduced moisture stress during the final stages of ripening and provided a wonderful fruit quality.
Viticulturists: Eben Archer and Johan Mong