Limited Release Rousanne, 2018

A full bodied Rousanne bursting with bright citrus, honeysuckle, ripe pears and melon layered with stone fruit flavours over a creamy palate and with a lingering, zesty finish. 

Meet the maker: Swartland Winery

Region: Swartland, Coastal Region – South Africa

Grape(s): Roussanne (100%)

13% ABV / 750ml

Viticulture:

The Swartland name originates from a description of the indigenous "renosterbos" or rhino bush, which appears to turn black, ("Swart" in Afrikaans), during the summer months.

This hot, dry climate has an average temperature range of 25°C-35°C and an annual rainfall of 450mm-600mm, but the altitude of these vineyards creates a cool oasis in this arid landscape.

Minimal intervention and environmentally friendly farming practices are paramount.

80% of the vineyards are small bush vines with an average yield of six tonnes per hectare; the quality of fruit is exceptional.

Winemaking:

The fruit was harvested from a single vineyard at optimal phenolic ripeness. 

The grapes were crushed and the juice was fermented in second and third fill French oak barrels.

The wine was left on the lees for 60 days, adding texture and complexity to the palate.

The wine was then racked and transferred back to the barrels for further ageing for six months, before being filtered and bottled.