The Foundry, Viognier, Stellenbosch, South Africa, 2022

Viticulture

The Viognier is cultivated in a single vineyard located on a south-westerly slope approximately 6 km from False Bay. This site benefits from cool maritime breezes off the Atlantic Ocean. The granite-clay loam soils naturally limit yields while preserving acidity and enhancing varietal aroma expression.

Winemaking

After harvesting, the grapes were cooled, crushed, and pressed. The free-run juice was settled overnight before being transferred to seasoned French Allier and Compiègne oak barrels designated for white wine. Fermentation was split: half of the barrels were inoculated, while the other half underwent spontaneous, wild fermentation. Approximately 30% of the wine underwent malolactic fermentation in barrel. The wine was then matured on the lees for nine months before blending and bottling.

Tasting Note

The 2022 Viognier from The Foundry presents a pale, clear, and bright appearance with a pronounced greenish hue. The nose is aromatic and refined, offering notes of peach, honey blossom, jasmine, and a subtle hint of sea breeze. On the palate, these flavours are echoed with a crisp, linear structure and vibrant fruit character. The wine finishes with a mineral edge, a touch of pithiness, and a persistent line of natural acidity, delivering freshness, precision, and excellent food-pairing potential.