Sophie Le Rosé

This wine pairs beautifully with sushi, fresh salads, or light seafood dishes, thanks to its refreshing acidity and berry-driven profile. It also works well on its own as a refreshing aperitif​.

The grapes for this rosé were sourced from the cool-climate regions of Elgin and Villiersdorp, both part of South Africa’s Cape South Coast. Elgin, known for its cool ocean breezes and diverse soils, allows for slow ripening, enabling the development of intense fruit flavors. These vineyards were specifically selected to optimize the expression of both Shiraz and Pinotage grapes​.

Iona Sophie Le Rose is not barrel-aged, maintaining a fresh and crisp profile designed for early enjoyment rather than long-term aging. The fermentation process was stainless steel to retain the vibrant fruit characteristics.

The winemaking process involved minimal skin contact to achieve the desired rosé color, with some blocks receiving up to two hours of contact. Fermentation occurred between 14°C-15°C, preserving the delicate aromas and flavors. The blocks were handled separately and later blended to create a wine that balances complexity with consistency​.

Iona is a cool-climate Elgin wine estate focused on expressing its distinctive soils and maritime-influenced vineyards through sustainable farming and minimal intervention. Best known for Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay, Iona produces precise South African wines defined by freshness, purity and a strong sense of place.