SOUTH AFRICA

de Trafford Upper Hemel-en-Aarde
2013 Pinot Noir

Viticulture

Vineyard: Upper Hemel-en-Aarde
Soil Type: Carbon rich decomposed granite over red clay subsoil.
Vine Age: 4 years old.
Irrigation: No irrigation
Harvest Date: 28 of February 2013.
Yield: 5 tons/ha.

Vinification:

In the spring prior to the 2013 harvest, de Trafford was subject to devastating winds that reduced most of the crop in the Stellenbosch area and 50% or more of the crop was destroyed. David Trafford decided to supplement the loss with crop from other areas and make a few interesting “one off wines” such as this Pinot Noir from the Hemel-en-Aarde valley, near Hermanus and Walker Bay. The area is well known for producing some of the best Pinot Noirs in South Africa.
VINTAGE CONDITIONS
Typical cold, wet winter followed by a normal growing season with enough rain and warm weather to produce healthy growth. The small berries and moderate ripening period produced concentrated grapes with a lot of flavor and richness.
WINEMAKING
Spontaneous natural yeast fermentation started after six days cold soak. Fermented up to 30ºCentigrade. The cap of skins was punched down manually once to twice a day for seventeen days. Wine drained directly into 225 liters second fill French oak barrel together with a single pressing from traditional basket press. All de Trafford red wines undergo malolactic fermentation in the barrel.
Aged for seven months in barrels with only a single racking.
141 cases made only.

Tasting Notes:

Color: Deep ruby.
Nose: Intense complex red berries, spices and smoky forest floor.
Palate: Typically silky texture and complexity on the palate which should still develop considerably. Drinking very well now, but will improve with some aging.
Other: This Pinot Noir will pair well with roasted chicken or with duck and other game birds, casseroles or, stews like beef Bourguignon and coq au vin.

Chemical Analysis:

Alc (%): 15.19
RS (g/l): 1.3
TA (g/l): 5.7
pH: 3.89