Illimis Cinsault 2021

VINEYARD:
Grapes for this wine are sourced from an old bush vine vineyard that was planted in 1974 in Darling on well-drained, red, loam soils with granitic origin. This Cinsault is made in a more delicate style and is intensely aromatic, yet presents a layered complexity from this old site.

VINIFICATION:
Grapes were picked by hand on 24th March. 75% whole bunch, spontaneous fermentation. Pressed after 11 days on the skins. Aged in neutral 225L barrels for 7 months. Lightly filtered prior to bottling.

TASTING NOTES:
This vintage shows fynbos, Turkish delight, rose petals and plenty of perfume on the nose. The palate is layered with red fruit, wild sage and savoury notes with delicate tannins on the finish. This wine shows true finesse.

W.O. Darling

2021 Illimis Cinsault

Produced from a remarkable heritage block out in Darling planted in the 1970's this wine shows the hights that this once overlooked grape can produce.

Upfront aromas of dried wild herbs, orange peel, and juicy red fruit are perfectly complimentary by the faintest note of freshly baked rye bread and a pleasant earthy aroma of wet clay that hints toward the future development of this wine.

The palate is dry, light, linear, and juicy with a pleasant finish of rose petals and wild strawberries.

This wine can be drunk now, slightly chilled, served with gamey or cured meats but will improve with upwards of seven years of careful cellaring.

@barrysomm