The grapes to produce Pinotage “Founders” Swartland Winery were harvested at optimal phenolic ripeness. Fermentation took place on the skins with regular pump overs and aeration at controlled temperatures of between 24 and 26°C. Pinotage “Founders” Swartland Winery had extensive contact with the skin after the completion of alcoholic fermentation.
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 to 35°C and an annual rainfall of 450 mm and 600mm, but the altitude of these vineyards creates a cool oasis in this arid landscape. Minimal intervention and environmentally friendly farming practices are paramount. Sowing cover crops between the vines provides protection from the winter rains and also maintains the valuable mineral content, nutrients and moisture during the hot summers. 80% of the vineyards are small bush vines with an average yield of six tonnes per hectare; the quality of fruit is exceptional. The soil types vary, but Malmesbury Shale dominates, with small patches of granite and Table Mountain sandstone.
Swartland Winery is located the most exciting wine region in South Africa. Big open skies, arid deserts, the vast flowing landscape, with its unforgiving climate and rugged bush vines, this is wild country, this is Swartland. The contrast with manicured Constantia and oh-so-cool Stellenbosch couldn’t be greater. A new wave of winemakers are making ground-breaking wines from Rhône varietals and it is part of a revolution that has got everybody talking. The Swartland Winery is producing iconic and award winning wines in this fashionable and dynamic region, so we have joined forces with them to create a unique, distinctive and expressive wine range that has been masterfully blended for the UK palate. We think something this good, is definitely worth talking about!
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