Bellevue Dirkie Pinotage 2021 per case

"A special wine with a profound sense of place from one of the oldest commercial Pinotage vineyards in the world, planted in 1953. When the maiden 1959 vintage won trophies galore, Pieter Krige Morkel was crowned South Africa's new 'king of wine'. His hands-off approach then is replicated now to let the grace and wisdom of the vineyard shine through."

Tasting Note

The scent of rosewater adds to the enchantment of bright raspberry, strawberry, maraschino cherry and pomegranate flavours, with dark plum and earthy beetroot notes too. Beautiful purity and poise in the silky mouthfeel and on the long finish. Exceptional maturation potential.

In the Vineyard

Planted in 1953 by P.K. Morkel, the second oldest vineyard block on Bellevue lies on a cool southern slope with Cartreff soil and is supported by drip irrigation. Covering 1.85 hectares, this low-yielding vineyard is registered as a single vineyard.

In the Cellar

Cold soaked for three days before inoculation, with three aerated pump-overs daily during alcoholic fermentation. Transferred to 300-litre French oak barrels (50% new, 50% second fill) for spontaneous malolactic fermentation, maturing for 22 months.

Analysis

Alc: 14% | pH: 3.57 | RS: 1.1g/l | TA: 6.3g/l

Bellevue Wine Estate — Stellenbosch. Single vineyard, planted 1953. 750ml. Sold per case of 6.