Lismore Estate Viognier 2015.
Samantha O'Keefe left California with dreams of starting a family and finding paradise. Tucked into the foothills of a dramatic mountain range at the bottom of Africa, Lismore Estate Vineyards was born alongside her nascent family. Passion and vision, combined with vines planted at 300 metres, chilled by winter snow and nourished by the African summer sun, produces classic, cool climate wines which are rich, complex and lovingly hand crafted.
Vineyard
Lismore Estate Vineyards is the only registered wine estate in the Greyton ward and has a total of 12.5 hectares planted with Chardonnay, Syrah, Sauvignon Blanc and Viognier. The vineyards are planted on slopes at the base of the Riviersonderend Mountain Range. The combination of elevation and climate make for an extended ripening period, which is approximately three to four weeks later than the more traditional wine growing areas in the Western Cape.
Winemaking
The grapes were whole bunch pressed prior to a barrel fermentation. The wine was then aged for 11 months in 225 litre oak barrels. No malolactic fermentation took place. Occasional battonage with extended lees contact, imparted added texture and complexity to the final wine.
Tasting Note
Hints of frangipane, apricot and honeysuckle on the nose, all very well-defined. The palate is ripe and spicy onthe entry with touches of dried orange peel, shaved ginger and a hint of dried lychee. There is splendid weight in the mouth and a long, satisfying finish.
Serving Suggestion
A wonderful pairing for richly flavoured dishes, spicy Asian inspired cuisine, or try with a warming Moroccan tagine.
Grape
Viognier 100%
Country
South Africa. Region: Western Cape
Alcohol: 14%.
Dry/Sweet value: 2 (1 is dry, 7 is very sweet).
Residual Sugar: 4.
Contains Sulphites: Yes.
Vegetarian/Vegan: Yes/Yes.
Milk/Eggs: No/No.
Organic/Biodynamic No/No.