Winemaker Notes
With hundreds of white grape varieties to choose from, winemakers have the freedom to create a virtually endless assortment of blended white wines. In many European regions, strict laws are in place determining the set of varieties that may be used in white wine blends, but in the New World, experimentation is permitted and encouraged. Blending can be utilized to enhance balance or create complexity, lending different layers of flavors and aromas. For example, a variety that creates a soft and full-bodied white wine blend, like Chardonnay, would do well combined with one that is more fragrant and naturally high in acidity. Sometimes small amounts of a particular variety are added to boost color or aromatics. Blending can take place before or after fermentation, with the latter, more popular option giving more control to the winemaker over the final qualities of the wine.
Situated on the western edges of Cape Peninsula, the vineyards in this cool-climate, maritime district of Cape Town grow within one kilometer to the sea in most directions.
Cape Peninsula is recognized mainly for Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon and includes the small region of Constantia where the Dutch governor, Simon van der Stel founded an extremely successful vineyard in the 17th century.