Technical Analysis
In this Reserve blend, with it's bright acidity and complex array of tropical notes, head winemaker Rianie Strydom seeks to elevate the Cavalli unsung hero, Verdelho. Harvested from a 20 year old decomposed granite block (the second oldest in South Africa), and making use of a terroir that naturally lends itself to producing vibrant white wines.
Tasting note
This wine shows complex and enticing aromas of white peach, apple, pear and lime with layers of almond brittle, orange zest and brioche. The palate is broad and textured but boasts a fresh, mouth-watering acidity and a crisp, dry finish. The 2024 blend consists of 60% Chenin Blanc, 28% Verdelho, 6% Chardonnay & 6% Viognier
Vinification details
Each parcel of grapes was hand-picked in the early morning at Cavalli, whole-bunch pressed and vinified separately. The earliest pick was the Verdelho which underwent a spontaneous fermentation in 500 and 400L barrels and showed an exceptional acidity and delicate white fruit profile. The Viognier was picked riper to give lots of tropical fruit and floral flavours and fermented in seasoned French oak. The Chardonnay and Chenin were fermented in new 300L and 500L French oak barrels with the balance in 225L 2nd to 5th fill barrels. The varieties were innoculated with terrior and flavour specific yeast varieties to enhance flavour profile according to picking times. All batches
were kept on their lees with a monthly battonage until blending.
Technical Analysis
In this Reserve blend, with it's bright acidity and complex array of tropical notes, head winemaker Rianie Strydom seeks to elevate the Cavalli unsung hero, Verdelho. Harvested from a 20 year old decomposed granite block (the second oldest in South Africa), and making use of a terroir that naturally lends itself to producing vibrant white wines.
Tasting note
Notes of orange blossom and spice lead to bountiful layers of fruit: yellow grapefruit, peach and apricot with a tropical undertone of gooseberry and guava. The wild-fermented Verdelho brings delicate white fruit and a bright, lingering acidity, producing the freshest of finishes. The 2023 blend consists of 60% Chenin Blanc, 30% Verdelho, 6% Chardonnay & 4% Viognier
Vinification details
Each component undergoes separate fermentation and ageing for 6 months in 27% first fill French oak barriques meticulously chosen to accentuate the distinctive qualities of each grape variety. The barrels used vary in size from 225L to 500L. The final selected blend beautifully captures the essence of the estate’s hidden treasure: the second oldest Verdelho block in South Africa, originally planted in 2004. Block 9, spanning 2.67 hectares, is situated on decomposed granite soil, approximately 250 meters above sea level, with a slight north-western orientation.
AWARDS
Tim Atkin MW: 92 pts
Platter: 92 pts
