VINEYARDS
The vineyards producing the Peacock Ridge range of wines are cultivated mostly on the lower slopes of Waterkloof estate. It is situated on the slopes
of the Schapenberg in Somerset West. 5 kilometres from the sea, the Chardonnay vineyards are planted at a height of between 200 and 290 metres above sea level. The soils are of sandstone origin with medium-sized stones, helping with drainage, while also retaining the ability to retain moisture. The vineyards are trellised to handle the canopy effectively. Strong south-easterly winds during the growing season help to control growth and naturally limit yields. The vineyards are an average age of between 9 and 11 years. Production was approximately 5 tons/ha.
THE 2005/06 GROWING SEASON
The 2006 vintage was characterised by a cold, wet winter, followed by a relatively dry early growing season, with the wind up on the Schapenberg
blowing almost non-stop. This resulted in even smaller than normal bunches and berries, giving more concentration and flavour. Intensive vineyard practises were followed, including much attention to bearer spacing during pruning. Excess shoots were suckered three to four times during the growing season. This ensured that no green harvesting was needed, except for the
removal of weak shoots. Due to the small crop, the vineyards easily managed the dry conditions later in the growing season. The grapes had a very good natural acidity.
WINEMAKING
The Chardonnay grapes showed great intensity and length; as a result it was decided to ferment only a portion of the wine (approximately 30%) in barrel. The grapes for the barrel component were whole-bunch pressed and allowed to settle for 24 hours before racking into barrel, where wild yeast fermentation was allowed to take place. The wine was stirred every two weeks after alcoholic fermentation. No malolactic fermentation took place. Natural wild yeast fermentation was also used in the tank fermenting components. After fermentation the wines were left on the fine lees for nine months to add complexity and depth.
TASTING NOTES
The wine shows intense lime flavours on the nose. Rich white peach flavours are also apparent. The palate is full, yet elegant with well-integrated oak. A good natural acidity provides balance. The wine has great length and complexity, a positive benefit of allowing natural fermentation.
ANALYSIS
Alc: 14.5%
TA: 7.0g/l
pH: 3.33
RS: 2.5g/
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