Wine Composition
90% Sauvignon Blanc, 10% Semillon
Winemakers Comments
An elegant wine showing elderflower, green fig and gooseberry on the nose, that opens up to passion fruit and grapefruit with a hint of greener notes. The wine has a mineral quality that is supported by concentrated fruit and juicy acidity that leaves a lingering aftertaste. This is a complex wine that delivers a beautiful expression of our pristine terroir.
Awards
John Platter | 90 points
Technical Analysis
Alcohol Percentage
14%
TA
6.6 g/l
pH
3.36
RS
3.0 g/l
Viticulture
The Sauvignon Blanc vineyards are planted on South facing slopes with altitudes varying from 300 – 350m above sea level. These vineyards are the most elevated position on Zevenwacht facing False Bay, deriving full benefit from the cool sea breeze during the ripening stages. Pungency and aromatic concentration are the hallmark of a fine Sauvignon Blanc and there is no shortage of these characteristics on the lofty southern slopes of the Bottelary Hills. Grapes were picked at various stages of ripening to provide us a broader spectrum of flavours to work with at blending. A small percentage of Semillon was used as a blending partner that adds weight to the palate.
Cellar Techniques
The grapes were given up to 6hrs of skin contact to allow for flavour extraction from the skins before pressing. The juice was handled reductively and cold fermented to protect the delicate thiol characteristics of the grape variety. 5 Months extended lees contact was given to add mid-palate weight to the blend and a 5%-barrel fermented portion was blended for added complexity and texture.
Winemaker
Name - Hagen Viljoen
Winery
Situated on the Stellenbosch Wine Route, Zevenwacht has viticultural roots which penetrate deep into the historic past of South Africa. While literally meaning Seven Expectations, the name Zevenwacht exemplifies the abundant delights which await visitors to the Farm. A leader in wine tourism, Zevenwacht was one of the first Wine Estates to establish a restaurant, hotel and conference facility, Cheesery and Spa on the Estate.
The wines of Zevenwacht are distinguished by their classic style and finely crafted elegance. Winemaker Jacques Viljoen honours century-old wine-making traditions, yet is boldly innovative, welcoming the contribution that modern technology makes to the vinification of premier wines. Covering 120 hectares of the 450-hectare property, the vineyards are ideally situated for the growing of quality grapes. Zevenwacht is characterized by good quality, varied soils and the vineyards have been selectively planted with red and white noble varietals.