Situated between the towns of Vredendal and Klawer along the Cape West Coast, Cape Rock Wines grows an unusual mix of red and white varietals – Syrah, Grenache, Mourvèdre, Carignan, Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache Blanc, Roussanne, Marsanne, Viognier and Colombard. Winemaker Gavin Brand combines a surprising mix of grapes to create delicious and unexpected blends, like Amnesty (Syrah, Mourvèdre, Grenache, Carignan and Viognier); the well-lauded Cape Rock Red (formerly the SMV); and Cape Rock White (Viognier, Grenache Blanc and Roussanne).
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Released in March 2017, the Cape Rock Grenache has become a firm favourite for Summer evening libations. Incredibly light and juicy with medium acidity, strawberry pink in colour and flavour with notes of florals and cherry, the Grenache is best served chilled and excellent when paired with food – fresh salads, seafood, Greek and Mediterranean tapas and sushi.
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The vineyards are located on a single 11-hectare farm in Olifantsrivier. Down-to-earth and committed, Gavin aims to make wines in the simplest way possible: instead of using complicated modern winemaking equipment or techniques, chemical additions or new oak maturation that disguise the grapes rather than applaud them, he endeavours to represent the fruit and the land as naturally as possible.
Minimal sulphur is used during the winemaking process, grapes are hand-picked during harvest and pressed with a small-batch pneumatic press, which stops before any harsh tannins are released. The result is silky smooth wines that highlight natural winemaking methods, enjoyed young or aged. “We try to make use of natural fermentation where possible, resulting in a broader spectrum of flavours in our wines,” concludes Gavin.
Have you discovered a juicy, fruit red lately? If so, let us know your thoughts about it in the comments section below!