In The Cellar
Once harvested, the juice is fermented in contact with the skins, utilising minimal-intervention winemaking techniques. A percentage of stalks were also used to provide a rudimentary filter for draining the resulting wine. After fermentation, the skin cap is covered with a layer of extra virgin olive oil and allowed to settle for 2 months in contact with the skins.
In The Vineyard
Identifying the site for growing a grape variety is arguably the most important factor when it comes to producing premium wines. Having worked with grapes from every corner of the valley, the founders chose the ideal pockets for the three varieties that have become the backbone of Lokaia; Known for its ridiculously high annual rainfall and radical temperature swings, Franschhoek's Bo-Hoek region was identified for the label's Semillon, 'Pound of Flesh'. The micro-climate here allows the Semillon grapes to ripen fully at low potential alcohols, while still maintaining zippy acidity. Harvest at low potential alcohol, the aim is to capture the transition between austerity and extravagance – a balancing act of the highest order to preserve the fruit’s natural acidity and to avoid excessive ripening.
"The small production boutique Pound of Flesh Semillon made from Stony Brook vineyards in the Bo-Hoek area of Franschhoek has been one of the truly great new release white revelations of the past two to three years in South Africa. This cultivar is in its terroir home in the Franschhoek Valley and simply excels there, showing intense aromatics of white peaches, lime peel, lemon grass, freshly cut Granny Smith apples with complexing hints of white blossom, dried herbs, wet hay, lanolin and intricate mineral notes of crushed gravel. The palate is equally enticing, showing incredible fruit concentration as well as a piercing glassy acidity, all concertinaed into a very taut, tight, linear but explosive package. With the amphorae winemaking and early picked freshness and purity, the Pound of Flesh Semillon represents a sublime expression of nervy, crystalline white wine with an enviable vibrancy and precision. If you missed the earlier vintages, do not miss this inspiring 2022 release. Drink now and over the next 5 to 8+ years."
(Wine Safari Score: 95+/100 Greg Sherwood MW)
