variety : Muscat Ottonel [ 86% Muscat Ottonel, 14% Shiraz ]
winemaker : Andries Jordaan
wine of origin : Tulbagh
analysis : alc : 11.33 % vol rs : 28.9 g/l pH : 3.33 ta : 6.90 g/l
type : Rose style : Semi Sweet taste : Fruity
pack : Bottle size : 750ml closure : Screwcap
in the vineyard : Theuniskraal comprises 350 ha with 130 ha under vine, mostly Cape Riesling, Chardonnay, Sauvignon blanc, Chenin blanc, Cabernet sauvignon and Shiraz. The soils are predominantly gravel and sandy loam. Clay and sandy loam soils are found along the river.
The Muscat Ottonel and Muscat de Frontignan grapes were grown in trellised and irrigated vineyards, planted in 1992 and 1989 respectively. Both are cultivated in loamy clay soils which assist in keeping the roots cool during the months and also preserving the varietal flavours.
The Shiraz grapes were sourced from south situated at an altitude of around 240 m above sea level and grown in stony, sandy loam soils. The trellised vines, established in 2000, receive supplementary drip irrigation
about the harvest: The Muscat Ottonel and Muscat de Frontignan grapes were harvested by hand and machine, mostly from pre early morning. The fruit was picked in early - February at 19.5° Balling. The Shiraz grapes were harvested at the beginning of March at 22.5° Balling.
in the cellar : The two varietals were vinified separately. The Muscat Ottonel grapes received skin contact for four hours and were cold fermented until dry at 13° to 15°C for a period of 14 to 21 days. The skins of the Shiraz grapes were removed after 24 hours and fermentation was stopped when a residual sugar level of 80 g/l was attained. None of the varietals were wooded and remained in stainless steel tanks until blending.