Grenache

Grenache pairs perfectly with grilled, stewed and braised meats like beef, veal, pork, chicken.

The summer of 2018 was the driest in 50 years. So much so that we saw most of our wetland vlei areas in the Agulhas Plain dry up completely. It was like living in a strange new world walking over dry, cracked mud in a vlei that is normally the home of the local Hippo pod. The winter started late at the end of May and it was only towards the end of September that we saw the wetlands full of water again The normally cool, dry, windy Spring conditions that we are so famous for resulted in a small but healthy crop. The rest of the growing season was moderate with a cool, dry January and February. The only significant rain during harvest was towards the middle of March, 55mm, and by then most of our grapes were safely in the cellar

The wine was barrel matured for 10 months in 2nd fill French oak barrels.

Only a small batch of 4 tons was produced in an open fermenter. Half the grapes were destemmed and the other half was whole bunch with gentle crushing-foot stomping by the cellar team. Fermentation took place with selected Rhône yeast strains at 22-26°C. Punch downs were done only twice a day.

Strandveld Vineyards lies between Elim and Cape Agulhas, just 9km from the sea, shaped by strong winds, cool temperatures, and a maritime climate. Its unique terroir of coastal conditions and diverse soils gives the wines their distinctive character. Inspired by early explorers, the vineyards were established in 2001 by pioneers drawn to this rugged, promising landscape.