Description
CELLAR INFORMATION Each variety was harvested separately at varying stages. Grenache and
Syrah were whole-bunch fermented while Cinsault and Petit Syrah
were crushed and destemmed. Each batch was fermented separately in
open top fermenters with wild/natural yeast. A short post fermentation
maceration occurred before the wine was then pressed and transferred
to 500 litre and 300 lite barrels for malolactic fermentation. The wine
spent a further 8 months in barrel before final blending and bottling. VINEYARD INFORMATION The 2022 vintage will be remembered as a cool season before harvest,
followed by a sudden temperature spike from January. Good vineyard
practices were followed, and canopies were managed well, which
delivered exceptional grape analyses and wine quality. Temperatures
rose sharply during early January and accelerated the early cultivars’
ripening dates, although we harvested more than a week later than
the previous year. Frequent high temperatures during February further
contributed to harvest dates shifting sooner and harvesting returned
to normal timing by the end of February. We were fortunate not to
experience any crop losses or mildew infections.
Reviews
JancisRobinson.com 16.5/20
[Jancis Robinson, 01/01/2023]
Tim Atkin 92
[Tim Atkin, 01/01/2023]
Greg Sherwood 92
Despite the cooler vintage conditions running into the pre-harvest period in January 2022, warmer temperatures from February onwards have ensured a deliciously ripe and opulent red boasting exotic aromatics of crushed sour cherries, Parma violets, burnt bushveld, ripe cranberries, salty red liquorice and a broader inviting melange of summer berries. This really is a fabulously complex maiden release focusing on Grenache and Syrah grapes that were separately whole bunch fermented before a short maceration and then further ageing in 500 and 300 litre barrels. The energy and vibrancy revealed on the nose follow succinctly to the palate that s packed full of spicy, peppery black currant fruit, tart bright tangy acids and a silky soft fine-grained finish showing a subtle kiss of salted caramel. I m not sure how much more wine drinking enjoyment you can pack into a bottle!? Drink on release and over the next 3 to 5+ years. – Greg Sherwood MW. [Greg Sherwood, 01/01/2023]
Producer Profile
INTRODUCTION
The Brookdale Estate, situated at the foot of the lofty Du Toitskloof Pass in Paarl, is a very impressive boutique winery owned by Englishman Tim Rudd and is planted with not only 25+ year old Chenin Blanc vines but also several other special Chenin Blanc blocks that are now over 35 years old and certified under the Old Vine Project as Heritage Vines.
