Alcohol – 14.5%

Residual Sugar – 3.2 g/l

Total Acidity – 5.8 g/l

Total SO2 – 123 mg/l

pH – 3.74

WINEMAKER: Abrie Beeslaar

COMPOSITION: 100% Pinotage

ORIGIN: Stellenbosch – single vineyard

AGE OF VINES: 29-year-old bush vines

IRRIGATION: Supplementary drip irrigation

SOIL TYPE: Shale / Oakleaf / decomposed granite

YIELD: 6 tons per hectare

AGEING POTENTIAL: 15 to 20 years from vintage

VINTAGE CONDITIONS

During the winter that preceded the harvest in 2022, there was an aboveaverage amount of precipitation, and there were sufficient cold units to induce even budding. The heavy rainfall prompted the development of weeds, pests, and illnesses; nonetheless, these challenges were conquered by careful management of the vineyard.

VINIFICATION

Handpicked grapes were destemmed, sorted, and fermented in open top concrete fermenters at 28C. The skins were punched down by hand, every 2 hours during fermentation. The juice was drawn off the skins after 3 days. Malolactic fermentation and maturation took place for 20 months in 225L French oak barrels (50% new and 50% 2nd fill).

TASTING NOTES

Vibrant crimson-red hue, with aromatic hints of cranberry, raspberry, crème de cassis, and macerated cherries, complemented by subtle undertones of oak spice, tobacco leaf, and Fynbos shrub. The palate is opulent, decadent, with a framework of succulent plum and black cherry flavours enhanced by French oak, fragrant spices, and a rustic herbal hint. The wine presents a variety of flavours, including rich chocolate, wild berries, and exotic spices, all complemented by a subtle and harmonious oak influence that lingers on the finish. A wine that possesses the ability to age, exhibits complexity, and exudes elegance.

Data Sheet:

https://www.beeslaar.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Fact-Sheet-Beeslaar-Pinotage-2022.pdf