Piekenierskloof, Old Vine Carel van Zyl Grenache Noir, Swartland, South Africa, 2020

Producer Profile

Nestled in the Citrusdal Mountains, some 50 kilometers north of Swartland, is the magnificent Piekenierskloof plateau, which provides the perfect natural environment for vineyards to thrive.

At 750 meters above sea level, the plateau’s climate is characterised by warm days and cool nights, which allow grapes to slowly ripen and develop complex fruit flavours. Ungrafted bush vines planted in the 1950’s are still used in the production of Piekenierskloof Wine Company’s range of wines.

Viticulture

From the Bergendal and Heidedal farms situated in the Piekenierskloof plateau, 160 km north of Cape Town and 50 km from the Atlantic ocean as the crow flies. At 600 to 750 metres altitude these old, ungrafted bush vines, growing in sandy loam soils, are rejuvenate by cold air in the evenings during the growing season.

Winemaking

Grapes were cold soaked for 24 hours prior to the start of fermentation in stainless steel tanks. Regular pump overs followed and fermentation temperature was kept around 24°C. Malolactic fermentation and maturation for 14 months took place in 500 litre 2nd and 3rd fill French oak barrels.

Oak Ageing

Time: 14 Months
Type: 500 litre French Oak
% wine oaked: 100
% new oak: None

Tasting Note

Lots of juicy red berry, strawberry, earthy and elegant notes of pepper on the palate with hints of cloves, cardamom pod and smokiness. Well balanced with lively fine tannins and an elegant complexity on a long finish

Food Matching

Savour with lighter flavoured meals and delicate cheeses.