Thursday, 18 December, 2014
Vergenoegd
Fortunately there was no flooding this year during flowering, which should ensure that we have a higher yield in those blocks that were flooded last year. So far, diseases are under control with no outbreaks, but we will continue to keep a close eye on our vines. As most people do at this time of the year, our workers are having a well-deserved break between the 23rd of December and the 5th of January to recharge their batteries so that they are ready for the hard work that awaits us in the New Year!
In the cellar all is quiet at the moment. We will shortly start tasting through all the 2013 wines that have spent the last 18 months maturing slowly in 300 litre French barrels. These wines will be bottled early next year and the first stage will be to taste each barrel and then identify which barrels will go to which blend. Once we have an idea of what each barrel tastes like, we will start playing around with different pilot blends. This involves tasting, tasting and more tasting, trying to bring out the best of each blend and cultivar (Yes, we do know how lucky we are to call this a job!). This tasting and blending will take place over several days or weeks and once we believe we are nearly there, we will invite a winemaker or two to taste with us to get an "outsiders" opinion. We will keep you informed as to the progress of these wines as they develop.
More good news is that our thatching project has finally been completed. Vergenoegd is now once again looking beautiful and ready for the next 25 years.
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