Grenache Blanc, Donkiesbaai
Far up the west coast, about three and a half hours drive north of Cape Town, lies an open bay of white sand strewn with black mussels and kelp, with the icy waters of the Atlantic beating the shore. This is Donkiesbaai, where the Engelbrecht family have holidayed for four generations.
Expressive aromas of peach blossom and frangipani are followed by lime, yellow grapefruit, nectarine, and cantaloupe. Delicately textured on the palate with intriguing complexity – flavours of lime and apple evolve into dried apple, stone fruit, beeswax and five-spice. Fresh acidity balances a weighty mid-palate, showing intense stone fruit flavours of peach and nectarine, with a subtle, creamy, almond-milk finish.
Technical analysis
ALCOHOL
13.5 %
RESIDUAL SUGAR
2.0 g/L
pH
3.26
ACIDITY
5.9 g/L
ORIGIN
South Africa
VARIETY
Grenache Blanc
TIME IN OAK
30%
MALOLACTIC FERMENTATION
Partial
CLOSURE
Cork
BOTTLE SIZE
75cl
REGION
Piekenierskloof
Vinification details
Grapes were harvested on two picking dates. The earlier pick provides freshness and acidity. The second pick lends structure, body, and added concentration to the wine. In keeping with our philosophy of minimal intervention winemaking, Grenache Blanc grapes are whole bunch pressed and allowed to spontaneously ferment. Maturation takes place on the lees; 50% in concrete eggs, 30% in seasoned 500l oak barrels, and 20% in clay amphora.
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