No products in the cart.
Ahintof Spice Shiraz
Range Introduction
Sometimes we all need a nudge, a wink. A HINT of something great to come. This is your cue: take the leap, seize the moment. Do the thing you love. Trust your instinct. Some decisions though, don’t require any pondering at all. Like kicking back and enjoying this vivacious wine.
Vineyards
The vineyards are situated in the Paardeberg area and on the Drakenstein Mountain slopes, where grapes ripen optimally at different times. Granite and Hutton soils provide freshness, while shale soils contribute to the full-bodied structure. Ideal planting locations with hot daytime temperatures and cool nights contribute to the slow, late ripening of this Shiraz, resulting in unique spicy flavours with characteristic black pepper. Most of the vineyards are grown on a trellis system, with a portion of bush-vines, the combination of which aspects results in excellent batches to blend.
Winemaking
The grapes were harvested during March at optimal ripeness of approximately 24° Balling. After destemming, cold-soaking took place which reduces the fermentation temperature in order to allow for a slow, soft extraction of colour and flavours from the grape skins. Prolonged skin contact of one week resulted in a richly intense colour with bold spicy flavours. Malolactic fermentation in stainless steel tanks further softens the wine and produces an elegant, smooth Shiraz with gentle tannins and a firm fruit structure. Wood-maturation for several months in older barrels adds complex flavours with hints of oak and spice.
Tasting and Food Pairing
This soft, elegant Shiraz shows layers of ripe blackcurrant fruit and typical Shiraz flavours of spices and plums. Delicious when served with oxtail and steak.
Analysis
Alcohol 13.63% | Total Acidity 5.9 g/L | Total Sulphites 99 mg/l | pH 3.46 | Residual Sugar 4.3 g/L