De Waal CT de Waal Pinotage 2018

De Waal CT de Waal Pinotage 2018 is a prestigious expression of South Africa’s signature varietal, Pinotage. This wine has earned a 4-star rating from the John Platter Wine Guide, indicative of its quality and exceptional craftsmanship. With its deep, rich flavors and potential for aging, it represents the heritage and winemaking prowess of De Waal.

Accolades:

John Platter Wine Guide: 4-star rating.
Viticulture:

Varietal: 100% Pinotage.
Vineyard Location: North facing slopes that capture ample sunlight, enhancing the ripening process.
Soil Type: Predominantly gravel and loam, ideal for stress-growing vines which contribute to the concentration of flavors in the grapes.
Vine Age: The vines are 40 – 45 years old, offering the depth and complexity that comes from mature vines.
Trellising Method: 3 wire-hedge, which supports optimal sunlight exposure and air circulation.
Yield: 4 – 5 tons per hectare, focusing on quality over quantity.
Winemaking:

Harvest Date: February 2, 2015.
Sugar Level at Harvest: 25.5° Brix, indicating a high level of natural sugar that translates to richer flavors.
Fermentation & Maceration: The process lasts for 14 days, allowing for full flavor and color extraction.
Cellar Maturation: Aged for 12 months in 225-litre French barriques (60% new, 40% second fill), which infuse the wine with subtle oak nuances while preserving the intrinsic varietal characteristics.
Bottling Date: December 2017.
Tasting Notes:

Appearance: Dark in color, reflecting the intensity of the fruit.
Nose: The bouquet showcases prune and blackcurrant, with a delightful hint of violets that add complexity.
Palate: The palate is well-balanced and round, featuring a harmonious blend of dark fruit flavors and a velvety texture.
Finish: The finish is lingering and smooth, with a tactile richness that invites another sip.
Food Pairing:
De Waal CT de Waal Pinotage 2018 pairs wonderfully with robust meat dishes such as oxtail soup, Springbok, lamb, and richly flavored cheeses like a lightly smoked cheddar. Its robust profile also makes it suitable for pairing with hearty stews and grilled meats.

Ageing Potential:

This wine is designed to mature beautifully over 8 – 10 years from the vintage date, developing greater complexity and depth with time.
Serving Suggestions:

Serve this wine at 16-18°C to best appreciate its depth and nuances.

Decanting is recommended an hour before serving to allow the wine to breathe and fully express its aromas and flavors.

Enjoy De Waal CT de Waal Pinotage 2018 for its exemplary representation of Pinotage, offering a sophisticated experience that showcases the best of South African winemaking.