Description
Delheim Vera Cruz Pinotage 2023 is a structured Stellenbosch red that combines ripe fruit, polished oak, and fine tannins. Careful sorting in both the vineyard and cellar keeps the focus on fruit quality, while extended maturation in French oak gives the wine depth and a more refined texture.
The nose opens with dark fruit, vanilla, toffee, and subtle spice. On the palate, juicy red berries are supported by silky tannins and a firm but balanced structure, with the oak adding richness without overwhelming the fruit. The finish is long and smooth. It would pair especially well with grilled meats, roast lamb, braised beef, or rich mushroom dishes.
This is a polished Pinotage with enough structure and concentration to develop further over the next several years.
The nose opens with dark fruit, vanilla, toffee, and subtle spice. On the palate, juicy red berries are supported by silky tannins and a firm but balanced structure, with the oak adding richness without overwhelming the fruit. The finish is long and smooth. It would pair especially well with grilled meats, roast lamb, braised beef, or rich mushroom dishes.
This is a polished Pinotage with enough structure and concentration to develop further over the next several years.
In the cellar
The fruit was first sorted in the vineyard, with only the best bunches selected and harvested in the cool early morning hours. A second inspection took place at the cellar before the grapes were destemmed and crushed into open-top fermenters. Natural fermentation was allowed to begin at a low temperature before a selected yeast strain was added the following day. Fermentation took place at 26°C, with a combination of pump-overs and punch-downs used for extraction. The wine then matured for 18 months in 300L and 500L French oak barrels, with 35% first-fill oak.
Winemaker: Roelof Lotriet
Winemaker: Roelof Lotriet
About the Winery
Delheim Wine Estate is situated in the Simonsberg Ward of Stellenbosch in South Africa, with views that are breathtaking all year round. Delheim has been producing a wide range of internationally acclaimed wines for more than 60 years.
