Olifantsberg Grenache Noir 2020

Owned by Paul and Corine Leeuwerick, the Olifantsberg vineyards and winery are located on the fertile slopes of the Brandwacht Mountain Range – more specifically, on the slopes of the Olifantsberg mountain overlooking the Breedekloof valley. The vineyards are planted in shale Resnosterveld with soils ranging from schist to slate types, and influenced by big diurnal temperature swings and strong winds at altitudes ranging from 250m to 450m above sea level. During winter, the mountain peaks are covered in snow, keeping the vines dormant for longer and in summer the constant winds have a cooling effect on the vines. This helps to ensure slow ripening of the grapes and contributes to fresh and elegant wines.

Their Grenache noir is grown as echalas vines (vine-to-post) on clay-shale rich soil with a high component of quartz rock. A high density planting resulting in very concentrated fruit in this mountainous vineyard site. By selecting the three major Grenache clones we have enhanced our natural complexity.

Complexity is build through multiple picking dates. Small batches of natural fermentation took place in open fermenters. A portion of whole bunches were included sometimes up to a 100%. Soft punch downs were performed. Some batches had extended maceration on the skins to add to the complexity. All of the components are basket pressed and aged for 7 months in seasoned French oak barrels. Each batch is carefully selected and blended to compliment the final product and aged for a further 2 months in barrel.