GG_N54_FR-web

SOUTH AFRICA
GRAPE
new era for Saronsberg. Jansen, well-travelled and
enthusiastic about the future, brings a deep understanding
of the winery’s people and vineyards.
Saronsberg strategically focuses on Rhône varieties,
leveraging the perfect climate for ripening
these grapes. While Shiraz has been their flagship,
the winery is not content to be a one-trick pony.
Bordeaux-inspired blends also receive attention,
recognizing the fickleness of consumer palates and
preferences. The uniqueness of Saronsberg lies in
its position and interpretation of a Mediterranean
climate with vines predominantly planted on clay
and shale. The cool afternoon breezes mitigate the
heat, allowing for the development of juicy, red fruit
from vines in clay soils, balanced with vineyards
anchored in shale producing fruit with more depth
and complexity.
The winery boasts two adjacent farms, spanning
4 km from the slopes of the mountains to the
valleys. Rhône varieties such as Shiraz, Grenache,
Mourvèdre, Viognier, and Roussanne, along with
a touch of Marsanne, contribute to Saronsberg’s
beloved Full Circle. The judicious use of oak has
become its hallmark, resulting in profound fruit
expression, worthy of its accolades in the new 2024
Diners Club Platter’s Wine Guide. Here, both the
Saronsberg Full Circle 2021 and Saronsberg Shiraz
2021 scored 94 points with three more wines scoring
90+. And as an ode to the Rhône, their Saronsberg
Roussanne 2021 received 5 stars and the title of Wine
of the Year in its category. Saronsberg acknowledges
its remote location and the unique visitor demographic
it attracts. Visitors, often drawn by their
familiarity with Saronsberg wines or a desire to
discover something new, frequently stay in the
on-site cottages to fully immerse themselves in the
countryside experience.
AT SARONSBERG, HARVESTING TAKES PLACE SURROUNDED
BY MOUNTAINS
SARONSBERG - WHERE VISITORS ESCAPE THE HUSTLE AND BUSTLE OF THE CITY
In conclusion, the South African wine industry
stands as a testament to innovation, skilfully
weaving together the restraint of Old World styles
with the vibrancy of the New World. With ingenious
blends paying homage to the inspiration drawn
from the Rhône, the producers take pride in crafting
wines that maintain an unmistakable South African
authenticity.
WINTER 2023 • GILBERT & GAILLARD - THE FRENCH EXPERTS ON WINE
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