The Vinified by the Sun logo, which will feature on all new Vrede en Lust wine labels, refers to the farm's 220 KVA solar power generating system. The impressive installation of solar panels occupies an expansive stretch in the vineyards, and allows the farm to operate completely independent of the national grid in sunlight hours, supplying sufficient electricity for the running of the cellar, restaurant, offices, wine tasting and the whole hospitality division, even in the peak season.
Built in 2013, the solar installation was the first and biggest of its kind in the South African wine industry. In its first year of operation, it allowed Vrede en Lust to save 297.92 TCO2 – thereby nearly cutting its carbon footprint in half. Yet the farm's commitment to environmental sustainability spans much further, and encompasses various aspects of farming and production practices, like recycling of all waste, reducing the use of chemicals and the environmentally-safe treatment of effluent water, reducing water wastage and applying gravity irrigation in all vineyards. As an industry leader in renewable energy, Vrede en Lust is continuously looking for new ways to lessen its impact on the environment and utilise scarce natural resources sustainably. This is especially relevant at a time when persistent extreme dry and hot conditions across the winelands, coupled with economic pressures, are forcing farmers to find innovative solutions to overcome grave challenges to their livelihood.
Proudly displaying the Vinified by the Sun logo, are the farm's newly released Lady J Syrah 2012 and Red Shale Sauvignon Blanc 2015. To commemorate the 80th birthday of the Buys family matriarch, ouma Johanna, the award-winning Syrah was renamed in her honour and epitomises the qualities of this beloved woman. An elegant, rich red wine with finesse! Aged in selected oak, the fine, integrated tannins are complemented by opulent red fruit and blueberries with subtle spice, making for a luxurious drinking experience. The wine is priced at R105.00 (VAT included) at the cellar.
The Red Shale Sauvignon Blanc is made from grapes cultivated in the fertile red shale soils of Vrede en Lust's Elgin farm, Casey's Ridge, which specializes in the production of cool climate white varieties. It is a complex Sauvignon Blanc, with a good mineral backbone and vibrant acidity, balanced by well-defined layers of fruit.Think tangy pear, passion fruit as well as green apple and gooseberry. The Red Shale Sauvignon Blanc forms part of the Artisan Range, an exclusive range of wines handcrafted by the winemakers in small batches for Wine Club members. The cellar door price is R99.00 per bottle. These new releases and the complete range are also available through Vrede en Lust's online wine shop and at selected fine wine retailers.