A harvest to remember

Cellarmaster Johan Joubert shared his thoughts on the 2015 harvest with us:

“Thanks to a dry and early season, the 2015 harvest will be remembered for its perfect growing and quick ripening conditions, resulting in grapes with good physiological ripeness and a year of good wine quality. One of the results we’re most excited about is the low pH analysis of the wines, which will lead the way for exceptional ageing potential.”

All the white cultivars were picked within 10 to 14 days on average – earlier than normal. The grapes arrived in the cellar with good varietal fruit flavours and a naturally higher acidity. The cool nights during the final stages of ripening ensured excellent cultivar freshness and varietal expression. The grapes presented thicker than normal skins, so we decided that longer skin contact was needed. This will ensure wines with a higher concentration of flavours and good ageing potential.

As for the red grapes, cold nights – especially during the last two months before picking – delivered phenologically and physiologically ripe grapes in our cellar. These grapes showed excellent colour, complexity and tannin ripeness. The cooler and dryer October, November and December weather led to smaller berries and loose bunches, which resulted in wines with better fruit concentration.

Different parcels of grapes from our five climatic areas with their varying soil types, were selectively vinified and kept separate as far as possible. This selective vinification process helps us identify different levels of fruit, and emphasises the quality and wine styles that are needed for each of our wines.

Boasting all the elements necessary for a quality harvest, this year is sure to produce both a white and red grape vintage to remember.