| Cultivar | 55% Shiraz, 45% Carignan |
| Appellation | Swartland |
Recognition (Current & previous Vintages):
2016: 2018-Platter – 3.5 * rating
2011: Veritas Awards – Double Gold
Babylon’s Peak winery, situated on the highest weathered granite slopes of the Paardeberg Mountain, is privately owned by the Basson family who has passed down the tradition, passion and art of winemaking over four generations. Predominantly low-yield dryland bushvines are selected to produce these excellent wines with distinctive character.
The Carignan vineyard is dryland bushvines, planted on shale soils, contributing to the flavour and complexity of the wine. The Shiraz vineyard is trellised and receive additional drip irrigation, if necessary, to ensure a long, even ripening period.
Winemaking : The grapes were harvested by hand at 26.1°B (Shiraz) and 24.3°B (Carignan). The grapes were destalked only, no crushing was done. Cold maceration was done before fermentation started in open fermenters. The grapes fermented at 24-26°C for 5-7 days, after which the wine was taken to barrels where it went through malolactic fermentation. After malolactic fermentation was completed, the wine was blended and spent another 12 months in older 225 litre French oak barrels until bottling.
Tasting note : Mocha and chocolate with dark berry flavours are complimented by spicy undertones. A soft mouthfeel that lingers on the palate.
Food Recommendation : Pair with rich and creamy pastas and light meat dishes.