Wine Spotlight: Zesty Elegance – South African Sauvignon Blanc Brilliance
Interested in making South African Sauvignon Blanc? Give us a call at 877-812-1137 to speak to a winemaking representative about your order. Cheers!
Appearance:
In the glass, South African Sauvignon Blanc presents a pale straw color with a hint of green, reflecting its youthful and vibrant nature. Its clarity and brilliance invite anticipation for the refreshing experience that lies ahead.
Aroma:
A symphony of citrus and tropical fruit aromas greets the nose, revealing the varietal’s signature characteristics. Notes of zesty lime, ripe grapefruit, and a touch of passion fruit dance harmoniously, creating an enticing bouquet. The aroma is clean, bright, and promises a burst of freshness with each sip. (yeast suggestion: R2, 71B, QA23, VIN13)
Palate:
As the wine touches the palate, it delivers a burst of invigorating flavors. Crisp green apple and lively pineapple take center stage, accompanied by hints of freshly cut grass and a subtle herbal undertone. The wine’s vibrant acidity adds a refreshing zing, creating a palate-cleansing sensation that lingers into a clean, lingering finish.
Flavor Profile:
This Sauvignon Blanc is a true expression of South Africa’s wine region terroir. The fruit-forward profile is complemented by a minerality that adds depth and complexity. The judicious use of stainless steel and glass in winemaking allows the purity of the fruit to shine, resulting in a wine that is both lively and elegant.
Pairing Suggestions:
The bright acidity and crispness of this Sauvignon Blanc make it an ideal companion for a variety of dishes. Pair it with fresh seafood, goat cheese salads, or herb-infused chicken for a delightful culinary experience. Alternatively, enjoy it on its own as a refreshing aperitif on a warm day.
Overall Impression:
South African Sauvignon Blanc is a testament to the region’s ability to craft wines that balance freshness and flavor. It captures the essence of the grape with precision, offering a sensory journey that captures the spirit of South Africa.
Interested in making South African Sauvignon Blanc? Give us a call at 877-812-1137 to speak to a winemaking representative about your order. Cheers!
Unveiling the Artistry Behind Chilean Wine: A Toast to Excellence
In the world of winemaking, few regions can boast the combination of unique terroir, skilled artisans, and a rich cultural history quite like Chile. Nestled between the Andes Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, this South American gem has been quietly gaining recognition as a powerhouse in the global wine industry. Let’s embark on a journey to discover why making Chilean wine is nothing short of an art form.
The Terroir Advantage:
Chile’s diverse geography, ranging from the arid Atacama Desert to the cool, maritime-influenced climate of the coastal areas, provides winemakers with a canvas of terroirs. The result is a wide spectrum of flavors and aromas that make Chilean wines unique. From the robust reds of Curico Valle, each sip reflects the character of its terroir.
Sustainable Practices:
Chilean winemakers have embraced sustainable and organic practices, aligning their craft with environmental consciousness. Many vineyards prioritize biodiversity, water conservation, and minimal chemical intervention. This commitment not only preserves the pristine landscapes but also enhances the purity and authenticity of the wines produced.
Iconic Grape Varieties:
Chilean winemaking is defined by its dedication to traditional grape varieties, with a particular focus on Carmenere, often referred to as Chile’s signature grape. This once-forgotten Bordeaux varietal found its new home in Chile, producing wines with luscious dark fruit flavors and a distinct spiciness. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Sauvignon Blanc also thrive in the fertile soils, contributing to the country’s diverse wine portfolio.
Innovation and Modern Techniques:
While honoring tradition, Chilean winemakers are not afraid to embrace innovation. State-of-the-art winemaking facilities equipped with modern technology allow for precise control over the winemaking process. This fusion of tradition and innovation ensures the consistency and quality of Chilean wines, earning them accolades on the international stage.
In the world of winemaking, Chile stands as a testament to the perfect marriage of nature’s gifts and human craftsmanship. The artistry behind making Chilean wine is a celebration of terroir, sustainability, iconic grape varieties, and a commitment to excellence. So, the next time you uncork a bottle of Chilean wine, savor not just the liquid in the glass but the story of a nation passionate about producing wines that captivate the senses.
Interested in making South African or Chilean Wine? Give us a call at 877-812-1137 to speak to a winemaking representative about your order. Cheers!
Chilean Wine Notes
Why make wine from Chile? Because it’s like bottling up sunshine and smiles!
Picture this: rolling vineyards nestled between the Andes Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, where grapes bask in the perfect blend of cool coastal breezes and warm, sunny days. Chile’s diverse terroir makes it a winemaker’s paradise, offering a kaleidoscope of flavors just waiting to be uncorked.
CHILEAN WINE NOTES
Cabernet Sauvignon:
A flagship for Chile, their Cabernet Sauvignon impresses with its deep ruby color and complex aromas of blackcurrant, cherry, cedar, and tobacco. On the palate, it’s rich and full-bodied, with well-integrated tannins and a long, lingering finish.
Cabernet Franc:
Cabernet Franc from Chile offers an elegant expression of the varietal. With aromas of red berries, violet, and herbs, it’s vibrant and aromatic. On the palate, it’s medium-bodied with silky tannins and a fresh, persistent finish.
Carmenere:
Chilean Carmenere showcases the best of Chile’s signature grape. With deep purple color and aromas of blackberry, plum, and spices, it’s captivating. Lush and velvety on the palate, with flavors of ripe fruit, chocolate, and a touch of smokiness.
Malbec:
A standout example of great winemaking grapes, the Chilean Malbec boasts intense aromas of blackberry, plum, and violet, with hints of vanilla and spice. On the palate, it’s full-bodied and expressive, with ripe tannins and a long, smooth finish.
Merlot:
Chilean Merlot offers aromas of ripe plum, cherry, and spices, with subtle hints of chocolate and vanilla. Medium-bodied and smooth on the palate, with soft tannins and a lingering finish.
Pinot Noir:
The Chilean Coastal Pinot Noir exhibits delicate aromas of red fruits, flowers, and earthy notes. Light-bodied and elegant, with vibrant acidity and silky tannins, it’s a perfect expression of Chilean terroir.
Syrah:
Syrah from Chile showcases the richness and depth. With aromas of blackberry, blueberry, and pepper, it’s intense and alluring. Full-bodied and velvety on the palate, with layers of dark fruit, spice, and a long, lingering finish.
Chardonnay:
From the cool-climate region of Chile, Chardonnay offers aromas of tropical fruits, citrus, and vanilla. Medium to full-bodied, with a creamy texture and balanced acidity, it’s a delightful expression of Chilean Chardonnay.
Pinot Grigio:
Pinot Gris from Chile showcases fresh aromas of green apple, pear, and citrus, with floral undertones. Crisp and refreshing on the palate, with lively acidity and a clean, mineral-driven finish.
Sauvignon Blanc:
Chilean Sauvignon Blanc has aromas of grapefruit, lime, and herbs. Crisp and vibrant on the palate, with zesty acidity and a refreshing finish.
Viognier:
Viognier from Chile displays enticing aromas of apricot, peach, and orange blossom, with hints of honey and spice. Medium-bodied and luscious on the palate, with a smooth, lingering finish.
Interested in making Chilean Wines? We have the grapes and juices! Give us a call at 877-812-1137 to speak to a winemaking representative about your order. Cheers!
Cheers to Spring Winemaking Adventures!
Hey there, fellow vintners and grape aficionados,
As the frost thaws and the vines awaken from their winter slumber, can you feel that excitement bubbling up like a well-aged Cab Sauv? That’s right, it’s time to dust off those barrels, polish those glasses, and get ready to dive headfirst into the spring winemaking season!
Whether you’re dreaming of crisp Chardonnays, robust Merlots, or something in between, now’s the time to get those orders in. From grapes, juices, fermenting tanks, corks, and everything in between, we’ve got you covered. So, why wait? Let’s uncork the magic of spring together!
2024 Spring Grape Offerings:
Chile: Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Carmenere, Malbec, Merlot, Petite Verdot, Pinot Noir, Syrah, Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, and Viognier
2024 Spring Juice Offerings:
South Africa: Shiraz, Merlot, Pinotage, Cabernet Sauvignon, Semillon, Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, Chenin Blanc, and Sauvignon Blanc.
Chile: Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Carmenere, Malbec, Merlot, Petite Verdot, Pinot Noir, Syrah, Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, Viognier, and Muscat.
Crush/Destemm will be back!
We will be crushing and destemming again this year! However, there is a minimum order of 24 cases of Spring grapes. This will give you 6 pails of must, and about 20+ gallons of juice to work with.
Winemaking Classes:
Check out Musto Wine Grape & Frank Renaldi’s online classes via our sister site WinemakingInstructions.com.
Winemaker Hours:
Winemaker Sam Lee will be in the store and available for questions on Tuesdays and Fridays from 8:00AM-4:00PM. If you want to speak to a winemaker in person, make sure to stop by and see Sam! You can also email him at slee@juicegrape.com.
March Store Hours:
Mon-Fri: 8:00AM-4:00PM
Sat-Sun: Closed
Ready to take your winemaking to new heights? Simply shoot us an email or give us a call, and we’ll make sure you’re all set to rock this winemaking season.
Here’s to the grape adventures ahead!
Pinotage Perfection: Crafting Excellence in South African Vineyards
Nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of South Africa, a grape varietal has captured the hearts of winemakers and connoisseurs alike – Pinotage. Born and bred in the Cape Winelands, Pinotage is a testament to the fusion of tradition, innovation, and the terroir that makes South African winemaking truly exceptional. Join us as we explore why making Pinotage wine in South Africa is a journey into vinous greatness.
A Unique Grape with a Distinct Identity:
Pinotage, a cross between Pinot Noir and Cinsaut, was created in South Africa in the early 20th century. This grape has since evolved into a distinctive varietal, embodying the spirit of the region. Known for its bold, robust character and complex flavors, Pinotage stands as a symbol of South African winemaking innovation and determination.
Embracing the Terroir:
South Africa’s diverse terroir plays a pivotal role in shaping the character of Pinotage wines. From the warm valleys of Stellenbosch to the cool slopes of Walker Bay, each region imparts its unique signature on the grapes. The result is a spectrum of Pinotage wines, from fruit-forward expressions with hints of cherry and raspberry to more complex profiles featuring smoky, earthy undertones.
Winemaking Mastery:
Crafting Pinotage requires a delicate balance between tradition and modern winemaking techniques. South African winemakers have honed their skills to showcase the best qualities of the grape. Oak aging (French Oak, Medium Toast), fermentation methods (Yeast Suggestions: RC-212, D254, D80, and BM4X4), and blending strategies are meticulously chosen to enhance the inherent characteristics of Pinotage, creating wines that are both bold and elegant.
Versatility in Styles:
One of the beauties of Pinotage is its versatility. Winemakers in South Africa produce a range of styles, from youthful and vibrant wines suitable for early consumption to more complex, age-worthy expressions that evolve beautifully over time. This diversity caters to a wide audience, making Pinotage a wine for every palate and occasion.
Conclusion:
In the heart of South Africa’s vineyards, Pinotage reigns supreme as a symbol of the nation’s winemaking prowess. The unique identity of this grape, shaped by the diverse terroir and the expertise of passionate winemakers, makes crafting Pinotage wines an art form. So, the next time you raise a glass of South African Pinotage, you’re not just sipping a wine – you’re experiencing the soul of a nation in every nuanced sip.
Interested in making South African Pinotage? Give us a call at 877-812-1137 to speak to a winemaking representative about your order. Cheers!
Wine Spotlight: South African Pinotage
Pinotage wines are on the rise throughout the world.
Wine drinkers enjoy it because Pinotage is complex, yet light in body. Winemakers love working with the grapes because fermentations are for the most part simple and smell amazing. “Strawberry cotton candy” are descriptors we’ve heard in the past. Yet, despite it’s wonderful characteristics, it is still a wine that is relatively unknown and under rated.
The Pinotage Grape was created in 1925 and is a cross between two vinifera grapes, Pinot Noir and Cinsault. Abaraham Izak Perold created the grape to bring out the brilliant robust flavors that both Pinot Noir and Cinsault possessed, while making the grape easy to grow.
Pinotage is known to produce smoky, earthy flavors with hints of tropical fruits. We (MWG) source our Pinotage from the Breede River Valley. This is because the Breede River Valley produces wines that express notes of cedar, plums, and dark berry notes. The wine then rounds out with a smooth, tannic structure. Lots of complex and flavorful wines come out of this valley and now you can make your very own at home!
Quick Winemaking Tips:
- Please note that if you punch through too vigorously during fermentation you can get an almost burned plastic characteristic. It is better to ferment Pinotage at lower temperatures.
- The yeasts we recommend utilizing are D254, D80, and BDX
- Our Winemaker Bootcampers have made this serval times. If you ever have any fermentation questions please do not hesitate to reach out.
- Check out our blog post about making Syrah from South Africa too!
- Click here for information about our Grower from South Africa.
- Food Pairing: Enjoy these wines with a hearty stew or red meat.
Interested in making your own wine? Give us a call at 877-812-1137 to get started!
The Winemaker’s Think Tank: Vol 10 – Making Wine from Pinotage Grapes
What’s the Winemaker’s Think Tank?
Every Thursday we will post about a few frequently asked questions that our winemaker has answered. If you have a winemaking question you would like to have answered, please email us at support@juicegrape.com and we will try to get into next week’s post. Cheers! 🙂
We all know that feeling. You made it through the holidays, your wines are resting peacefully in your cellar, but there’s something missing. You’re getting that “itch.” You go down to your cellar and see that a few of your barrels are empty, and that French oak barrel shouldn’t be empty too long . . . so you start Googling and then you find that there is a spring wine season! Your prayers are answered! You can scratch that winemaking itch and get moving on your next vintage. Believe me, your French oak barrel will thank you.
Not all winemakers know this but Musto Wine Grape brings in wine grapes and juices from South America and South Africa in the springtime. Specifically Pinotage and Cabernet Sauvignon from South Africa, Malbec from Argentina, and Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Carmenere, Merlot, Malbec, Petite Verdot, Pinot Grigio, Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, Syrah, and Viognier from Chile.
Making wine from these grapes and juices is very different than the California grapes and juices. The grapes have a much longer ride and the regions where the grapes are grown give off very different characteristics. Argentinean and Chilean grapes tend to have a lot of fruit-forward notes, dark berry flavors, with cigar and earthy undertones; as opposed to the South African grapes that have a brighter fruit profile such as cranberry and raspberry.
In the spring of 2016 we decided to make a Pinotage. Neither of us had ever made one before and we were excited to try out a new wine grape variety and region. Pinotage is a red wine grape that is South Africa’s signature variety. It was bred there in 1925 as a cross between Pinot Noir and Cinsault (also known as Hermitage) – thus the name Pinotage. It is the second most planted grape in South Africa.
As a winemaker it was very exciting to get a chance to make wine from South Africa. It was also exciting to make a wine we have never made before. The grapes came in 20 lb. (9 kg) cases and were simply immaculate. The berries were in very good condition with no mold or decay. The one thing we did notice about the grapes is the skins were different in texture. They chewed for a long time and can almost be described as leathery. We have never seen that on a California or South American grape before.
The initial numbers on the grapes were workable. The Brix came in at 25, which would result in an alcohol of 13.75%. There was no adjustment needed on the sugar level. The pH and titratable acidity (TA) came in at 3.91 and 6.2gm/L respectfully. Tartaric acid was added to get the pH to a desired level. One thing we have learned is every grape is different – they cannot be handled by mathematical formulas only. Always bench test your adjustments; the results are not always linear. Our goal is to get the pH AND the TA to the ideal levels. This is not always possible, but an experienced winemaker will have to make the best decisions.
After adding tartaric acid, we ended up with a pH of 3.5, which is an ideal number. The TA only rose to 7.5 gm/L. As we stated above these grapes did not show the linear relationship between the pH and TA – meaning it is not always true what the pH goes down, the TA goes up.
So these were good starting numbers to release the grapes for fermentation. Something Frank and I swear by is always making your adjustments before fermentation. Once fermentation starts it is a moving target. And once the wine has completed fermentation, you really should not be making major pH/TA adjustments. We went with D254 yeast, simply because it always does a good job and we have never made these grapes before. Next year we think we might try the BDX yeast.
We processed these grapes with the same protocol as a California vinifera. We cold soaked the grapes 3–4 days. Cold soaking not only gives you time to work on the wine before fermentation, but allows the wine to “bleed out” and stabilize. The skins break down and you get the tannins and color to stay with the must. While the grapes were in a cold soak we made the Brix, pH, and TA adjustments. We also added normal additives such as tannins, Opti-red, oak powder, etc.
The fermentation went well. A normal 3–4 punch downs a day is a good protocol. We checked the temperature every morning and evening. It ran from 70–80 °F (21–27 °C) the entire fermentation, a good temperature for reds.
The pressing went well. The skins were still like little pieces of leather – we will never forget that about Pinotage. The fresh pressed juice had a cotton candy nose to it, which we found unusual but pleasing. It has faded off to a bright red berry nose as time has gone on.
Once the wine was racked 2–3 times, it was moved to a Hungarian barrel for 8 months. It is now back in the tank for final adjustments before bottling. The final numbers are all good. The pH is 3.52, the TA is 0.62 and the alcohol level is 14%.
Tasting Notes:
The nose has red berries such as raspberry and cranberry. It is a clean nose with a “fruity” character.
The palate had red licorice and tobacco, and reminds me of a Pinot Noir. The tannin level is medium, which we find perfect for this wine. Big tannins would have overtaken this particular lot of Pinotage. It is an easy drinking wine. It has a sweet fruity presence, yet there is no residual sugar. This will make a good red for the summer for those red drinkers who refuse to go to whites at that time.
So there it is. We made our first South African wine from grapes. It was exciting and a learning experience for both of us. Each season we will try to process them differently to create other sides of this wonderful wine — Pinotage!
You have many winemaking options during the spring winemaking season. Don’t let a unique winemaking opportunity pass you by! If you have any questions about the spring wine season feel free to email me at cmusto@juicegrape.com.
Article by Christina Musto & Frank Renaldi for Winemaker Magazine. You can see the entire article by clicking HERE.
We hope this information helps with your winemaking. If you have any follow up questions or winemaking questions in general, please email us at support@juicegrape.com.
Wine Wednesday: South African Cabernet Sauvignon
As the Spring Wine Grape Harvest Approaches, we thought we would check out some of the wines that South Africa has to offer.
Today we tasted a Cabernet Sauvignon. #HappyWineWednesday
WINE: Bob’s 2013 Overnight Express South African Cabernet Sauvignon
TASTING NOTES: On the nose are notes of raspberry, berry, flint, and oak. The palate is filled with flavor, yet soft supple tannins round out the mouthfeel nicely. A great wine to enjoy with grilled meats or a meaty pasta dish.
VITUCULTURE: The soil where these grapes were grown is considered “Clovelly, Stony Glenrosa soils”. Clovelly is a component derived from granite, usually red to yellow colored. It contains acidic compounds. It is found on mountain foothill slopes and on ranges of hills, with good physical and water retention properties. Glenrosa soils are typically compact, stony, and clean cut.
WINE REGION: Western Cape, 31 miles East of Cape Town
GEEKY THINGS: Wines from the Western Cape are where some of our Cabernet Sauvignon will be arriving from. Wines from these locations are often described as having a subtle mineral note which many believe is from the decomposed granite soils. The Granite Mountains are approximately 600 million years old, over 3 times as old as the soil in Napa where many of the Cabernet Sauvignon vines are grown.
Click to Download Tasting Notes
More information about our South African Grapes are on our blog. Check out the most recent “2017 South Africa Harvest” by clicking HERE.
Cheers!
The Musto Wine Grape Staff
2017 South Africa Harvest
Spring season is almost upon us and we have some great news. This year we will not only be offering Pinotage from South Africa, but…
Wait for it…
Cabernet Sauvignon from South Africa too!!
Also, we have additional higher-end regions where we will be sourcing our South African grapes. In addition to the Breede River Valley we will also offer grapes from Stellenbosch, Olifantsriver, and the Cederberg Mountains.
Stellenbosch:
Location: Western Cape, 31 miles East of Cape Town
Grapes Being Sourced: Cabernet Sauvignon
Grower Information: A meticulous vineyard manager, this Cabernet has intense fruit flavors. The grapes create full, rich, complex wines that age well.
Geeky Facts: “Wines from these locations are often described as having a subtle mineral note which many believe is from the decomposed granite soils. The granite mountains are approximately 600 million years old, over 3 times as old as the soil in Napa where many of the Cabernet Sauvignon vines are grown.” (via Wine Folly)
Olifants River:
Location: One of the Northernmost wine regions in South Africa’s Western Cape. It spans 90 miles between Lutzville in the North and Citrusdal Valley in the South.
Grapes Being Sourced: Cabernet Sauvignon
Grower Information: The grapes thrive in the hot, dry mesoclimates and are tempered by cool ocean breezes at night and good cold units during winter. These growing conditions make the perfect recipe for good quality Cabernet Sauvignon. Also, you will find pockets of very old, almost ancient vines in this area. Vines were first planted in this area in the 1700’s
Geeky Facts: The Olifants River is named for the elephants that roamed the region in the 18th Century. (via Wine Searcher)
Cederberg Mountains:
Location: 186 miles North of Capetown. The Cederberg mountains contain a nature reserve. The mountain range is named after the endangered Clanwilliam cedar, which is a tree endemic to the area.
Grapes Being Sourced: Pinotage
Grower Information: These Pinotage grapes are from older vines and are cultivated at the highest altitude in South Africa. You can expect intense flavors with high levels of complexity. These grapes produce excellent Pinotage and can be compared to Napa and Sonoma in terms of quality.
Geeky Facts: The mountains are noted for dramatic rock formations and San rock.
The Pinotage grapes should be arriving towards the end of March and the Cabernet Sauvignon grapes should arrive at the end of April. We are expecting more information about crop estimates, clones, yeast pairings, photos, and more. So stay tuned for more updates! Cheers!
Official Pinotage Numbers Are Here
Official Pinotage Numbers Are Here
Brix = 25 (no adjustment required)
Starting pH = 3.91
Starting TA = .62
Added 1.5gm Tartaric Acid per liter
Final Number are pH = 3.50 & TA = 0.75
In conclusion, the final numbers are very good!! Looking forward to seeing how this vintage turns out!
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