GG_N52_FR

SOUTH AFRICA
GRAPE
VISITORS TO DE GRENDEL IN THE DURBANVILLE WINE VALLEY CAN ENJOY VISTAS OF TABLE MOUNTAIN OR EXPERIENCE THE FARM’S NATURAL
ENVIRONMENT AND CONSERVATION EFFORTS ON GUIDED FARM TOURS
Pinning global Sauvignon Blanc plantings on a world map demonstrates its cunning
demeanour, revealing a decorated tapestry across continents. It oscillates between
elegant Loire wines, profound examples from Bordeaux and pungent styles from New
Zealand. Italy, Chile, America, and Australia have also clinched some of its luminescent
glory, with a country like Hungary following in the sweet steps of Sauternes.
South African winegrowers bask in its popularity as plantings spread from the
Northern Cape and meander across all corners of the Western Cape like Robertson,
Stellenbosch and the Breedekloof. From there, it gravitates toward the coast and cool
slopes of undulated valleys (Cape Town and Cape South Coast) and climbs in altitude
in the continental Cederberg.
BLENDING REGIONS TO BLENDING 40 COMPONENTS
ON ONE FARM
Undissuaded by heat, drought, and wind, Sauvignon stalwarts are applauded for their
ingenuity. Owner winemaker from Aslina Wines, Ntsiki Biyela, tells how blending
contrasting terroirs imbues Sauvignon Blanc with character, bringing more awareness
to the country’s success with the variety. Growing up in Mahlabathini, a rural village
in KwaZulu-Natal far removed from the Winelands, didn’t curb this black female’s
pioneering zest in pursuing a winemaking career.
«When I started making Sauvignon Blanc, I aimed for a tropical style, focusing on
Stellenbosch fruit, blended with a smaller Elgin proportion to elevate it with a brush
of freshness. I quickly learned how complexity is achievable through regional blending,
SUMMER 2023 • GILBERT & GAILLARD - THE FRENCH EXPERTS ON WINE
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