Wild Garden Pinotage

Producer Note

 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. Carefully selected, blended and bottled for us, 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.

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.

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.

 Winemaking

 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.

 Tasting Note

 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