South Hill Cool climate Wines

Variety: 100% Sauvignon Blanc

Vineyards: The 2021 Sauvignon Blanc was made from a steep south facing block which is between 250 and 300 meters above sea level. The vines, clone SB 316 planted on Richter 99 root stock were planted in November 2003 and yielded 9,5 tons per hectare.

 Harvest Date: 2nd & 5th March 2021 at 23 degrees balling.

 Winemaking: All grape bunches were sorted before being destemmed. The berries were then sorted and crushed. The juice was then pressed off the skins immediately. Flotation was employed and the juice was inoculated a day after processing with Alchemy II yeast. Fermentation was completed at a constant 14 degrees and then the wine was left on the gross lees for 2 months to add richness and weight to the palate.

 Wine: The 2021 vintage is exceptionally fresh with aromas of blackcurrant, granadilla and granny smith apples. The palate follows the aromatics and is wonderfully crisp natural acidity and juicy tropical fruits displaying a fresh elegance which is the hallmark of cool climate Sauvignon Blanc. This is an extremely balanced wine which is drinking well in its youth but which will gain complexity over the next 18 to 24 months. Great on its own but also well suited to being enjoyed with a wide variety of foods.

Analysis: Alc: 13.81%      R.S. 1.9 g/l     T.A. 6.2 g/l        pH: 3.29    V.A.:0.41

Production: 1080 x 12 bottle cases

Variety: 100 % Shiraz  

Vineyards: The Shiraz vines, clone SH21K, were planted on Richter 99 root stock in 2005. The yield from this block was 9.5 tons per hectare.

 Harvest Date: 4^th and 5^th March 2020 at 22.5 balling.

Winemaking: This wine was made from grapes which were specifically harvested with rosé in mind and was not made from ‘bled juice’, a by product of red wine making. This allowed us to harvest at a balling which would translate to a respectable alcohol. The fruit was destemmed, crushed and received an average of 1 hour skin contact in the press before the pressing cycle commenced. This limited skin contact period was conducted in order to minimise harsh phenolics and give the wine an attractive bright cherry hue.         

Wine: Refreshingly dry, the nose bursts with ripe cherry, strawberry and sweet candied fruit aromas followed by a soft, juicy palate which despite its softness, finishes enticingly clean. Delicious on its own, this wine is also a surprisingly versatile food partner and can be enjoyed with anything from fragrant, lightly spiced curries through to desserts such as strawberry panna cotta.

Analysis:            Alc: 13.57%      R.S. 1 g/l     T.A. 5.1 g/l        pH: 3.6          V.A. 0.32

Production:        900 x 12 bottle cases

Variety: 100% Syrah

Vineyards: The Syrah vineyard was planted in 2005 on gently sloping section of the farm. Clone SH21K was selected on Richter 110 rootstock.

Harvest Date:  19 March 2019 at 24.4 balling.

Winemaking: All the grapes were sorted then fermented in small, half ton fermenting bins. During fermentation, the wine was punched down regularly to ensure soft tannin and flavour extraction. After fermentation was completed, a basket press was used to separate it from the skins. After malolactic fermentation, the wine was sent to 4^th fill French oak barrels for 12 months.

Wine: A beautifully balanced Syrah with ripe fruit forward nose with typical Syrah spiciness, subtle oaking and clean fresh berry fruits. Medium bodied with soft tannins make for a deliciously juicy  Syrah which honours the grape’s European heritage whilst maintaining a strong sense of Elgin’s unique terroir.

This wine can be enjoyed now but will gain depth and complexity over the next 2 to 3 years.

Analysis:            Alc: 14.7%      R.S.  2g/l     T.A.  6.2g/l       pH:3.51                        V.A. 0.59

Production: 565 x 12 bottle cases

A crisp, cool climate wine with generous passion fruit and black currant aromas. This wine has a soft, well integrated natural acidity with a well-balanced concentrated palate with no hint of greenness and a long finish.

A fresh, dry and vibrant salmon coloured Rosé made with juicy Shiraz grapes. This wine has enticing aromas of strawberry and tropical fruit with a soft palate and clean finish.

This medium bodied elegant wine is reminiscent of blackberry and white pepper flavours. Smooth and well balanced this wine will not only delight the connoisseur, it will easily convert a newcomer to its versatility. Ideal with any dish.