Babylon’s Peak is the name given to a tall granite outcrop on the Paardeberg, between Paarl and Malmesbury. Far from being a disharmonious ‘tower of Babel’, the wines are really good, and a credit to winemaker Stephan Basson, the fourth generation of winemakers in the family. The cellar had last been used in 1948, but Stephan re-commissioned the farm’s cellar in 2003.
Description
The grapes were harvested by hand at 26.1°B (Shiraz) and 24.3°B (Carignan). The grapes were destalked only, no crushing was done. Cold maceration was done before fermentation started in open fermenters. The grapes fermented at 24-26°C for 5-7 days, after which the wine was taken to barrels where it went through malolatic fermentation. After malolactic fermentation was completed, the wine was blended ans spent another 12 months in older 225 litre French oak barrels until bottling.
Description
The Pinotage is dryland bushvines, planted on the highest south-east facing granite slopes on the farm. Due to its unique terroir, this vineyard ripens slowly over a very long period. This results in very dark colour, soft tannins and good flavour compounds. The baboons normally harvest their quantity firstand we pick the rest. Aged 12 months in french oak. Enjoy with lamb, bobotie and braaied red meat.
Description
The Chenin Blanc grapes were picked from very old dryland bushvine vineyards. The vineyard grows on weathered granite soils, contributing to the flavour of the grapes and mineral character of the wine. Production is limited to 5 tons/ha. Pair with salads, seafood, chicken and other light dishes.
Description
The Viognier and Roussanne vines are both trellised with drip irrigation and are planted on weathered granite soils. The soil is well drained and the vineyards only get additional irrigation if it is necessary during our warm summers. Pair with roast duck, curry and other rich and creamy dishes.