A.A. Badenhorst Red Blend 2019, Swartland, South Africa

AA Badenhorst Family Wines are grown, made and matured on Kalmoesfontein farm in the Swartland appellation of South Africa. 28ha of old bushvines grow in the Siebritskloof part of the Paardeberg mountain. The vineyards – Mostly old bushvines planted in the 1950’s and 1960’s to Chenin Blanc, Cinsault and Grenache. The vines are unirrigated and farmed as biologically as possible. The vineyards are planted on north, east, and south facing slopes bringing tremendous variety to the fruit. Fruit from other selected sites within the appellation are also purchased to complete the final blends. The winemaking – All fruit, red and white, is whole bunch-handled so no crushing or destemming takes place. The red grapes are fermented in concrete tanks and open wooden kuipe. The post fermentation maceration is lengthy – up to 4 months – whereafter the wines are put to cask or 4000L foudres. No additions are done to the grapes other than sulfur before and after fermentation. Vineyards: small parcels of selected fruit is sourced from 7 vineyards on our farm Lakmoesfontein and from neighbors. Grapes: Shiraz, Grenache Noir, Cinsault & Tinta Barocca & Touriga Nacional. The tannins are prominent, well-integrated and refreshing. The aromas are brooding but with complex notes of pepper, liquorice, perfume, and black cherries. The palate entry is quite dense with lavender and dark berry fruit. The finish is dry with well spread tannins ending with savory and black currant.