Description
Vineyards:
Annandale lies in the celebrated Golden Triangle that stretches along the south-facing foothills of the Helderberg Mountains. The Cabernet sauvignon vineyards were established 27 years ago on the mountain escarpment between 100m and 170m above sea level to derive the benefit of cooling False Bay breezes. The maritim ecooling helps to prolong ripening, concentrate flavors and ensure optimal balance between fruit sugars, acids and tannins. The vines are planted in duplex soils of decomposed granite with a substructure of clay, that is an excellent retainer of moisture, and from which the roots can draw moisture during the drier summer months. Although dry farming is preferred, vines are irrigated when lack of water places them under threat. Annandale is moving towards a more biofriendly philosophy of regenerative farming to reduce its environmental impact and to promote climate resilience in the vines. Cover crops of oats and rye enrich and improve the life and health of the soil, enhance biodiversity, attract pollinating insects, retain moisture, fix nitrogen, and sequester carbon, providing a well-balanced microbial environment in which the vines can give of their best.
Winemakers comments:
The wine presents an intense dark purple hue that is typical to the opulent style of Annandale Cabernet sauvignon. The delicate bouquet starts with an elegant dance of cassis, dark fruits and subtle floral notes, all distinguishing characteristics of the superior Helderberg terroir. This is followed by an alluring depth and complexity of aromas developing in the glass. It is fascinating and demands one’s attention as the wine unfolds dark berries, vanilla and cigar box characteristics all in perfect balance. On the palate the wine reveals layers of complexity —rich cassis, velvety tannins, and hints of cedar and tobacco. Wine critics have already identified this Cabernet sauvignon as a superior wine of exceptional structure, balancing boldness with refined floral elegance, leaving a long, graceful finish. This special Reserve is a wine that can be enjoyed now or cellared for years to come, as it will certainly become more expressive with time.
Analysis
Analysis:
Alc: 14.5% by vol
Residual sugar: 2.1 g/l
Total acidity: 5.34 g/l
pH: 3.6
Extract: 30.4g/l
Background Information
Cellarmaster and 5th generation winemaker, Hempies du Toit, follows the traditional wine farming ways of his forbearers. Like them, he makes natural wines with ambient cellar yeasts with no added enzymes or additives. Grapes were coarsely destemmed resulting in a high percentage whole berry fermentation. Cold maceration was done for 48 hours before the first pump-overs were implemented. Fermentation on the skins was extended to 18 days and the free-run separated from the press juice. Malolactic fermentation was completed in 300liter French oak barrels and extended lees contact of 6 months was implemented before racking and returning the wine to barrel. Hereafter the wine spent another 24months in 80% new French oak barrels. Following a philosophy of simplicity, integrity, and patience, he believes “great things cannot be rushed”. Hempies is recognized as one of South Africa’s leading red wine specialists and is celebrated for his expressions of Cabernet Sauvignon. Accolades includes South African winemaker of the year and a global Grand Prix d’Honneur from Vinexpo
