Alvis Drift 221 Pinotage 2021
ABV 13.5%
Tasting Notes
This Pinotage is named in honour of Alvi, the 221st player to put on a Springboks jersey. 30% of the blend is fermented in French oak barrels while the rest of the cuvee stays in steel to bring freshness and vibrancy to the wine. Soft, enticing aromas of bramble, red cherries and chocolate on the nose, with the fresh, charming red fruits continuing on the palate along with well structured tannins. The finish is long with a lingering smokey note.
Food
Pairs perfectly with roasted meats and vegetables in teriyaki and barbecue sauces.
Media
Tim Atkin South Africa Report 2024 awarded 91 points.
Region
The Worcester wine region is South Africa`s largest and highest producing region, it is located 100km or a one and a half hours drive east of cape town. The district is sheltered by mountain ranges on every side creating a rain shadow that causes the area to be particularly hot and dry meaning irrigation is essential here, locals source this water from the nearby Brandvlei Dam. There are varying styles in the district due to the topographical variations, most grapes are grown in the gently rolling, more fertile valley floor, where the higher quality grapes are typically made from vineyards on the surrounding slopes, here the soils are better draining and suit lower yielding vines.
Producer
The Alvi’s Drift estate, based in the Breede River valley, is named after a bridge that was built across the river, which was commissioned in 1928 by the family as a means for the locals to cross safely. The estates founder Albertus Viljoen ‘Oupa Alvi’ notoriously scored the Springboks first try against the All Blacks on African soil. Today, his grandson Alvi van der Merwe is the winemaker and long side the vineyards, cultivated the land for fruit orchards and livestock herds, both dairy and free-roaming game. The family is committed to sustainability, giving back to the land, but also going beyond farming practices, helping local communities wherever possible, as this is fundamental to their values.
