Alheit Vineyards Cartology White Blend 2023
Cartology is a vinous exploration of Cape heritage. Intended to be a picture of the Cape seen through the lens of her old vineyards in a given vintage. The cuveé is composed of rare and extraordinary parcels of mature dryland bush vines, of heritage grapes, namely Chenin Blanc and Sémillon. Cartology has become our staple offering. It serves as a poster child for our project, and also seems to have become a flag bearer for Cape heritage wine in general.
Vineyards
The Cartology parcels are dry-farmed bush vines between 35 and 50 years old. The average yields for these parcels are around three tons/Ha or around 20/Ha.
Winemaking and Maturation
Hand-sorted and a whole bunch pressed grapes. Very lightly settled with no additions to the raw juice, wild fermentation took place in cement eggs, clay pots, foudres, and old barrels (various sizes). Fermentation of various parcels lasted anywhere between 3 weeks and 11 months and kept on lees for 12 months, then rested in tank on fine lees without fining for a further five months before bottling. Very simple, careful winemaking.
Tasting Notes
The nose shows citrus oil and pear, with subtle floral/honey tones. Firm mid-palate structure, medium-rich mouth feel, and long carry. Flavour persists and even intensifies throughout its length. The wine finishes dry and saline, refreshing the palate. This vintage has a sappy, thirst-quenching quality about it.
Technical Details
Wine of origin: Western Cape
Production: 27 000 Bottles
Bottling: May 2024
The Name: Cartology means the study of maps or charts. It could not be a more perfect name for this wine.
