This usually tropical attribute comes from the grapes of a single
vineyard block outside Stellenbosch of which the grapes have always displayed
this characteristic to the extent where it has become known as the Granadilla
Block.
The vines grow on a north facing slope where the grapes are cooled
by the prevailing south-westerly wind blowing up the rows allowing the berries
to concentrate their flavours as they slowly ripen.
This wine is only made in exceptional years and this year will be
the first time it is made from the grapes of a single vineyard block. The fruit
come from the Libertas farm - very close to the Adam Tas Cellar where
Zonnebloem is made.
Christo Blake, owner of Libertas and the third generation of his
family to deliver grapes to Zonnebloem, said for him the name Zonnebloem has
always been synonymous with quality and that he was proud that the grapes from
the farm met the winemaking team’s very high standards.
Elize says it was a privilege to craft the wine from such a unique
vineyard block and describes it as “full and beautiful” with fresh tropical
notes on the nose and crisp acidity on the palate. “The hint of
granadilla remains to the end in the long, lingering aftertaste.” The lively,
crisp character of the wine she ascribes in part to the harvest being slightly
earlier this year producing grapes of optimum quality, with a pleasantly high
acidity.
The wine can be drunk now or cellared for five to eight
years. It is best served with green Thai dishes, tomato-based food, fish
and other seafood, and poultry.
The 2015 Zonnebloem Limited Edition Sauvignon Blanc
costs about R90 and is available from November at the Distell Vinoteque, www.vinoteque.co.za.
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