Mourvèdre “Limited Release” 2021 – Swartland Winery

The grapes to produce Mourvèdre “Limited Release” Swartland Winery came from a 100% bush vine vineyard. Harvesting took place at optimal phenolic ripeness. Extended cold soaking was applied before a fermentation took place on the skins, with regular pump overs and aeration. The Mourvèdre “Limited Release” Swartland Winery fermentation temperatures were carefully monitored and kept between 24°C and 26°C. An extended skin contact was applied after fermentation was completed in order to fully extract the desired level of colour and to soften the tannins, resulting in a softer mouthfeel.

The Swartland name originates from a description of the indigenous “renosterbos” or rhino bush, which appears to turn black, (“Swart” in Afrikaans), during the summer months. This hot, dry climate has an average temperature range of 25°C to 35°C and an annual rainfall of 450 mm and 600 mm, but the altitude of these vineyards creates a cool oasis in this arid landscape. Minimal intervention and environmentally friendly farming practices are paramount. Sowing cover crops between the vines provides protection from the winter rains and also maintains the valuable mineral content, nutrients and moisture during the hot summers. The soil types vary, but Malmesbury Shale dominates, with small patches of granite and Table Mountain sandstone.