Aaldering Estate Pinotage 2017

A combination of dark fruit consisting of cherries, rhubarb and prunes completes the nose. Its multi-layered structure is further enhanced by a lengthy aftertaste. 2015 was one of the earliest harvests ever. Some varieties were harvested three weeks earlier than usual. Dryer conditions prevailed compared to 2014 and for the first time irrigation was monitored closely with modern technology. Definitely one of our best vintages over the past decade. Cooler conditions prevailed which resulted in very good flavour and colour production. Pump overs were carried out every 6 hours on this wine, and for 1.5 hours each initially, to maximize extraction from the fruit. Grapes were pressed just as fermentation ceased. The wine went through malolactic fermentation in stainless steel, and was then racked to barrels for maturation. Maturation occurred in 225L French oak barrels for a period of 23 months, after which it was blended to stainless steel for bottling. The wine then went through course filtration into the bottle.