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Grape Varieties:
100% Pinotage
Vintage Conditions:
The 2023 vintage experienced warmer winter conditions, leading to uneven budding and flowering. A much-needed 100mm of rainfall in December (2022) alleviated stress and encouraged vine vigour. January and February brought hot weather, but phenolic ripeness was successfully achieved.
Winemaking Method & Maturation:
Handpicked grapes were destemmed, sorted, and fermented in open top concrete fermenters at 28 C. The skins were punched down by hand, every 2 hours during fermentation. The juice was drawn off the skins after 3 days. Malolactic fermentation and maturation took place for 20 months in 225L French oak barrels (50% new and 50% 2nd fill).
Wine Tasting notes:
On colour
In the glass, Beeslaar Pinotage 2023 shows a vivid, medium-deep ruby-red core with youthful purple reflections at the rim, suggesting concentration yet clear vibrancy of fruit. The clarity is high and the colour intensity points to ripe bush-vine fruit and careful extraction rather than heaviness.
On the nose
The nose is pronounced and fragrant, opening with redcurrant, ripe raspberry, cranberry and black cherry compote, lifted by hints of forest berries. Subtle layers of cedarwood, dried herbs, earthy spice and a touch of cocoa and exotic spice speak to quality French oak and the distinctive, slightly savoury Simonsberg terroir.
On the palate
On the palate the wine is dry, full-bodied and lavish, with juicy dark plum and red cherry at the core, framed by fine-grained tannins and fresh acidity that keeps the rich fruit in balance. Delicate French oak brings notes of baking spice, cocoa and cedar, while an earthy, herbal nuance adds complexity and the long, persistent finish suggests very good ageing potential.
On the whole
An elegant yet indulgent Pinotage, marrying vivid red and dark fruit with refined oak spice and a long, structured finish.
| Alcohol | 14.5% |
|---|---|
| Residual sugar | 3.1g/L |
| Acidity | 5.7g/L |
| Ph Level | 3.64 |
| Region | Stellenbosch Single Vineyard |
| Producer | Beeslaar |