Rustenberg Sauvignon Blanc 2020/2022
ABV 13.5%
Rustenberg Stellenbosch Sauvignon Blanc is grown at some of the highest altitudes that vineyards are grown at in the region; just over 550m above sea level.
The nose displays intrinsic Sauvignon Blanc characteristics of tropical fruits, melon and gooseberry, with underlying tones of pineapple and passion fruit sustained on a fresh, crisp and well-balanced palate with prodigious length.
Vintage conditions
This vintage was impacted by the fourth year of the ongoing drought in the region. The 2017 winter was cold and dry, followed by a dry spring and summer, with bouts of unusual weather. A number of thunderstorms resulted in a late onset of additional vigour in the vineyards. Unsettled weather and wind during flowering, along with a freak hail storm and low levels of soil moisture decreased yields by 20% to 50%. The harvest began closer to its average start date and the smaller berries and bunches yielded lower juice volumes per ton. The lower yields resulted in the wines showing excellent concentration and body, producing rich, robust reds and fruit forward, expressive whites and rosés.
Vinification details
Grapes were hand harvested before being crushed, de-stemmed and pressed into stainless steel tanks for fermentation. Made without the influence of oak, the wine was aged on its lees for two to three months to add further palate weight and complexity to balance out the natural acidity.
Awards
IWSC 2018: Silver Outstanding
Green credentials
Accredited Integrated Production of Wine (IPW) estate.
