Mediterraneo 2021 - Simonsig

Wine of Origin Western Cape, South Africa.

The Roussanne grapes, harvested on the cool southwestern slopes of Simonsberg, were gently pressed and fermented in old French oak barrels, where the wine aged on the lees for 11 months. Marsanne, from vineyards on False Bay, fermented spontaneously in wood, preserving its freshness and fruity aromas. Part of the blend was aged in amphorae for greater complexity. Grenache Blanc fermented naturally before aging for 11 months in oak, while Verdelho, from the oldest South African vineyard, was vinified in barrel. The Bourboulenc fermented in old barrels after a 6-hour maceration on the skins, imparting floral and mineral notes. The wine is produced with minimal intervention, low sulfites, and no malolactic fermentation.

The blend begins with a balance of Roussanne and Marsanne, complemented by fresh Grenache Blanc with citrus notes of verbena and mineral notes of wet stone. Only 5% Verdelho is used so as not to overwhelm the other grapes. The delicate Bourboulenc lends floral and mineral notes. This unusual blend celebrates the art of blending, with some grapes enhancing flavor, others providing structure and freshness.

Fine Wine Awards: Silver (93/100).