Swartland Winery Limited Release Viognier 2018
The Swartland Limited Release Viognier could happily come from the slopes of the Northern Rhone, such is its purity of varietal character. The grapes are sourced from a single vineyard in the Swartland region (situated on an elevated plateau) where the high diurnal temperature range preserves acidity and halts excess ripening. The classic notes of apricot and peach are present, with a floral beeswax and jasmine character to the nose. The palate is full and rounded, typical of Viognier, with the higher alcohol lending body more than heat and delivering real flavour intensity. This is a wine of finesse, perfect with a light summer lunch.
The wine was fermented in second and third-fill French oak barrels in which it was then aged for a period of 6 months, with regular battonage. No animal-based fining agents or winery aids were used during the vinification.
Winery Information
For this vineyard, environmental sustainability is just as important as balance of flavors. They select a variety of different wine grapes, raised with as little intervention as possible and amongst cover crops for nutrition, moisture, and protection, to create an expertly blended flavor. Averaging a yield of six tonnes of fruit per hectare, the grapes grown in these vineyards are unsurpassed in quality and reflect the vivacity of their environment.
Tasting notes
Spices, dried pear and flowers abound, followed by a sweet floral perfume of ripe tropical fruit. Good follow-through from the nose with complex flavours of violets, dried pear and apricot prominent. Delicate oak lends structure and finesse.
Serving suggestion
Light lunches, fresh sushi or shellfish dishes or cheese platters.
Grapes - 100% Viognier
ABV - 13%
More information - http://www.swartlandwinery.co.za/