in the vineyard : Background
Uitkyk wine estate situated on the southern slope of Simonsberg in the Stellenbosch wine region, enjoys a rich history. The estate features a Georgian neoclassical double story house completed in 1788, one of only three 18th century houses left in the country. Uitkyk creates a range of discerning and accomplished wines that reflect the allure and magic of an historical estate.
Vineyards The grapes used to craft this wine came from a single vineyard situated at 250 meters above sea level and facing due north. The vines, which are 35 years old, are grafted onto nematode-resistant Richter 99 rootstocks and are grown in soils originating from decomposed granite. They are trellised on a 3 wire hedge system and received no supplementary irrigation during the growing season, thus dry land. Because these vines are so old, with age they almost became like bush vines.
The yield was only 6 tons per hectare, with the result excellent quality and complexity of the fruit. Uitkyk Estate is 600 ha big with 150 ha under vines.
Other cultivars planted on the estate are: Chardonnay, Sémillon, Chenin blanc, Viognier, Pinot Grigio, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Shiraz, Pinotage, Sangiovese, Mourvédre, Petit Verdot and Pinot noir. During the 2013 vintage 1010 tons were harvested at the cellar.