National Chianti Day: Tuscany’s Iconic Wine

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Every year on the 1st Friday of September, wine lovers around the world, get together to celebrate National Chianti Day. This day is all about Chianti, one of Italy’s most famous wines, born from the soil and history of Tuscany. As Australians love good wine and Italian heritage, National Chianti Day is the perfect excuse to tell the story of Chianti from its beginning to its global impact.

What is Chianti?

Chianti is a red wine from the Tuscany region of central Italy, a land of beauty and centuries of winemaking heritage. The wine is mostly made from Sangiovese grapes, the heart of Chianti’s soul. Sangiovese, named after the Latin “sanguis Jovis” (the blood of Jupiter), has high acidity, firm tannins and flavours of red cherries, dried herbs and violets.

The Grapes and Chianti

Chianti has its origins in the 13th century when winemakers in the Chianti region (Castellina, Gaiole and Radda) started to produce wine from a blend of grapes. Originally Chianti was a white wine but over time red grapes, especially Sangiovese, became the main component.

In the 19th century Baron Bettino Ricasoli, a Tuscan statesman and winemaker, created the “Chianti formula”. This blend was 70% Sangiovese, 15% Canaiolo (a red grape) and 15% Malvasia (a white grape). This formula defined the Chianti style but the use of white grapes has been phased out and nowadays the blend is more Sangiovese focused.

Today Chianti wines must have at least 70-80% Sangiovese and the rest is often made up of other red grapes like Canaiolo, Colorino or even international varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. This blend gives Chianti its bright acidity, medium body and a flavour profile that goes from fruity and floral to earthy and spicy.

 

The Birth of Chianti Classico

In 1716 the Grand Duke of Tuscany, Cosimo III de’ Medici, officially defined the Chianti region and its boundaries making it one of the first wine regions in the world to be legally protected. This region, now known as Chianti Classico, is the birthplace of Chianti wine. Wines from this area are labelled “Chianti Classico” and must meet strict production rules including a minimum aging period and a high percentage of Sangiovese grapes.

The black rooster (Gallo Nero) on the neck of Chianti Classico bottles is the symbol of quality and authenticity, it represents the historical rivalry between Florence and Siena and the victory of Florence that defined the boundaries of the Chianti region.

  • Chianti’s Origins: The first use of the name “Chianti” to describe the wine was in 1398. But the region’s winemaking history goes back even further, to Etruscan and Roman times.
  • Chianti Classico Requirements: To be labelled as Chianti Classico the wine must be produced in the original Chianti region and must meet the rules, including a minimum aging period of 7 months and at least 80% Sangiovese.
  • The Black Rooster Legend: The Gallo Nero, or black rooster, symbol comes from a legend about the medieval rivalry between Florence and Siena. According to the story, a black rooster’s early crowing allowed Florence to claim more territory during a border dispute and thus defined the original boundaries of the Chianti region.

Conclusion

National Chianti Day is a celebration of a wine that has gone beyond its origins to become an Italian icon and a benchmark of winemaking. In Australia, this day is celebrated with a series of events that bring together the best of Italian culture, food and of course wine. Whether you’re attending a festival, a winemaker dinner or simply enjoying a glass of Chianti at home National Chianti Day is an opportunity to appreciate the history and the timelessness of this Tuscan icon.

International Cap Classique Day: Celebrating South Africa’s Hero Sparkling 

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Every year on the 1st of September wine lovers around the world pop the cork to celebrate International Cap Classique Day. This day is all about the history, uniqueness and craftsmanship of Méthode Cap Classique (MCC) – South Africa’s answer to the world’s best sparkling wines. With roots in tradition and a sense of innovation MCC has become the benchmark of South African winemaking. International Cap Classique Day is a platform to educate consumers about the history, production methods and diversity of MCC. It’s also an opportunity to discover and enjoy the many styles available from crisp and zesty Blanc de Blancs to rich and complex vintages. Whether you’re hosting a party or having a quiet night in Cap Classique is the perfect wine for any occasion. Let’s dive into the origins of Cap Classique, its rise to international fame, the winemaking process and what this day means.

The Origins of Cap Classique

The story of Cap Classique starts in the early 1970s when a group of South African winemakers decided to create a sparkling wine that could rival the Champagne of France. Inspired by the méthode champenoise, the traditional method used to make Champagne, they adapted the process to the South African terroir. And thus Méthode Cap Classique was born – a sparkling wine made in the same laborious process of secondary fermentation in the bottle but with a South African spin.

The first Cap Classique was made in 1971 by the renowned Simonsig Estate in Stellenbosch. Frans Malan, the pioneer behind this innovation, called the wine “Kaapse Vonkel” (Cape Sparkle) and it was an instant hit. The success of Kaapse Vonkel paved the way for a new category of South African sparkling wine that would grow in quality and stature over the years.

The Rise of Cap Classique

Over time MCC has moved from a niche product to a mainstay of South African winemaking. Winemakers across the country took up the challenge of making high quality sparkling wines, experimenting with different grape varieties – Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and even Pinotage. The diversity of South Africa’s wine regions – from the cool coastal areas to the warmer inland regions – provided a range of styles and expressions and added to the richness of the MCC category.

As Cap Classique improved so did its recognition globally. South African producers started winning international awards and MCC was included among the world’s best sparkling wines. Today MCC is celebrated for its finesse, complexity and ability to show the terroir of South Africa.

The Winemaking Process of Cap Classique

Méthode Cap Classique is made using the traditional method, or méthode champenoise, a laborious process that originated in the Champagne region of France. From grape to glass it’s a multi-step process each contributing to the wine’s character, finesse and complexity.

  1. Harvesting the Grapes: The journey starts in the vineyard where the selection of the grapes is key. Chardonnay and Pinot Noir are the main varieties used but some producers also use Pinot Meunier, Pinotage or other local varieties. The grapes are picked early, often by hand, to ensure high acidity and low sugar levels which is essential for making sparkling wine with finesse and balance.
  2. The First Fermentation: After picking the grapes are gently pressed to extract the juice which is then fermented in stainless steel tanks or sometimes in oak barrels. This first fermentation produces a base wine which is usually dry and neutral in flavour. Winemakers may blend different base wines from different vineyard sites or grape varieties to create a balanced and complex blend, known as the cuvée.
  3. Tirage and Second Fermentation: The next step is the addition of the liqueur de tirage, a mixture of sugar, yeast and wine to the cuvée. This mixture is then bottled and capped with a crown cap. The bottles are stored horizontally in a cool dark place where the second fermentation takes place inside the bottle and the bubbles form. This can take several weeks to months depending on the style of the final product.
  4. Aging on the Lees: After second fermentation the wine is aged on its lees for an extended period. This aging is critical in developing the rich, toasty and nutty flavours of Cap Classique. The minimum aging is 9 months but many producers age their wines for several years to achieve more complexity and depth.
  5. Riddling (Remuage): Once aging is complete the bottles are racked and the wine undergoes a process called riddling or remuage. The bottles are placed on special racks called pupitres and over several weeks they are gradually tilted and rotated to encourage the lees to settle in the neck of the bottle. Traditionally done by hand this process is now often done by automated machines called gyropalettes.
  6. Disgorging (Dégorgement): Disgorging is the next step where the sediment in the neck of the bottle is removed. The neck is frozen and the sediment plug is ejected when the bottle is opened. This leaves the wine clear and ready for the final touches.
  7. Dosage: After disgorging a small amount of liqueur d’expédition, a mixture of wine and sugar, is added to the bottle. This step is called dosage and determines the final sweetness level of the wine which can range from brut (very dry) to doux (sweet). The bottle is then corked and wired and the wine is left to rest for a few more months before release.

Fun Facts about Cap Classique

  • Pinotage: South Africa’s own grape, Pinotage is sometimes used in the production of Cap Classique. This gives the traditional sparkling wine a local twist and adds red fruit flavours and character.
  • Extended Aging: While the minimum aging for MCC is 9 months some producers go beyond and age their wines for several years. This extended aging on the lees adds more complexity with flavours of brioche, almond and honey.
  • Rosé Cap Classique: Rosé Cap Classique is made by adding a small amount of red wine to the cuvée or by the saignée method where the juice has brief contact with the grape skins to extract colour and flavour.
  • Terroir: The various terroirs of South Africa have a big influence on the style of MCC. Coastal regions like the Cape Winelands benefit from the cooling sea breezes and preserve the acidity in the grapes resulting in crisp and vibrant sparkling wines. Inland regions are warmer and produce MCCs with riper fruit flavours and a richer profile.
  • Sustainability and Innovation: Many Cap Classique producers are practicing sustainable winemaking, organic and biodynamic farming, minimal intervention in the cellar and eco friendly packaging. Some are also experimenting with indigenous yeast strains and natural winemaking to create unique MCCs.

Conclusion

International Cap Classique Day is more than just a sparkling wine celebration; it’s a celebration of South African winemaking, innovation and the pursuit of excellence. As the world discovers and appreciates the elegance of MCC this day is a reminder of the timelessness of a wine that is truly South African. So on 1 September pop open a bottle of Cap Classique and cheers to a bright and bubbly future for this South African institution.

International Cabernet Sauvignon Day: The King of Red Wines

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Every year wine lovers around the world celebrate International Cabernet Sauvignon Day, a day to honor one of the most popular grapes in the world. On the 30th of August, both seasoned wine drinkers and casual sippers are encouraged to taste the big, bold flavours of Cabernet Sauvignon, aka the King of Red Wines.

How Cabernet Sauvignon was Discovered: An Accident

The story of how Cabernet Sauvignon was discovered is an accident. In the 17th century in the vineyards of Bordeaux, France, a natural crossing occurred between two well known grapes: Cabernet Franc, a red grape and Sauvignon Blanc, a white grape. This accident created a new grape variety—Cabernet Sauvignon.

The details of this cross-pollination were a mystery for centuries until modern DNA testing in the 1990s proved the parentage of Cabernet Sauvignon. This explained the grape’s unique characteristics, the structure and tannins of Cabernet Franc and the crisp, aromatic qualities of Sauvignon Blanc.

This accidental cross-pollination created a grape that would become a foundation of Bordeaux winemaking and eventually a global force. Winemakers quickly saw the potential of Cabernet Sauvignon, not just for its big flavors and deep color but for its ability to thrive in many climates and produce high quality wines.

The Origins and Early History of Cabernet Sauvignon

After its discovery Cabernet Sauvignon started to take root in the Médoc region of Bordeaux where it loved the gravelly soils that drained well and reflected the sun onto the vines. The thick skins made it resistant to disease and rot, a major plus in Bordeaux’s capricious climate.

By the 18th century Cabernet Sauvignon was a mainstay of Bordeaux blends, especially on the Left Bank where it was often blended with Merlot and Cabernet Franc to make the region’s famous wines. These blends were prized for their balance, complexity and ability to age, the benchmark for red wines everywhere.

Cabernet Sauvignon’s Global Travels

Cabernet Sauvignon’s success in Bordeaux didn’t go unnoticed and soon it was being grown in other parts of Europe and beyond. In the 19th century it made its way to the New World where it found a happy home in California’s Napa Valley. The warm sunny climate of Napa allowed Cabernet Sauvignon to ripen fully, producing wines with intense fruit flavors and robust tannins that are the hallmark of the region.

In Australia Cabernet Sauvignon was introduced in the mid 19th century and quickly became a leading grape variety, especially in regions like Coonawarra and Margaret River. Australian Cabernet Sauvignons are known for their individuality, often with eucalyptus or mint notes and rich dark fruit flavors. They have international recognition for their unique character and quality.

Cabernet Sauvignon also found success in South America, especially in Chile and Argentina where the grape loves the high altitude vineyards of the Andes. Chilean Cabernet Sauvignons are praised for their balance and structure, often more restrained than their New World counterparts.

Cabernet Sauvignon Characteristics

Cabernet Sauvignon is big, bold, deep and tannic, one of the most powerful and long lived red wines. The thick skins give it its intense color and tannic structure that allows it to age for decades in the bottle.

Flavor-wise Cabernet Sauvignon is often described as blackcurrant, blackberry and plum with secondary notes of tobacco, cedar, mint, eucalyptus and even graphite. Oak aging can add vanilla, spice and chocolate to the wine’s complexity.

One of the reasons Cabernet Sauvignon is so popular is its versatility. It can be enjoyed young with its big fruit and firm tannins or aged for many years to develop more complexity and a smoother texture.

The Future of Cabernet Sauvignon

As the world of wine moves forward Cabernet Sauvignon stays at the top, always offering something new and interesting. Winemakers are trying organic and biodynamic farming, low intervention winemaking and new regions to grow the grape. These innovations will keep Cabernet Sauvignon in the hearts of wine lovers everywhere.

In Australia sustainable vineyard practices and exploring new terroirs will keep Australian Cabernet Sauvignon in the game. Regions like Coonawarra with its terra rossa soils and Margaret River with its maritime climate are producing wines that show the individuality of Australian Cabernet.

Conclusion

International Cabernet Sauvignon Day is to celebrate this great varietal! Whether you’re opening a special bottle or trying a new favourite, today is the day to pour a drop of Cab Sav and enjoy!

World Pinot Noir Day: A Global Favourite

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Every year on August 18th wine fans around the world get together to celebrate one of the most loved and respected grape varieties—Pinot Noir. Elegance, complexity and versatility are the hallmarks of Pinot Noir and it has a special place in the hearts of wine fans and winemakers. World Pinot Noir Day is the chance to pour a glass to this classic varietal and explore its history, quirks and global reach.

The History of Pinot Noir

Pinot Noir, known as the “heartbreak grape” due to its tricky nature in the vineyard, has a long history dating back over 2,000 years. Originating in the Burgundy region of France, Pinot Noir has been associated with some of the world’s greatest wines. The name Pinot Noir comes from the French words for “pine” (pin) and “black” (noir) and refers to the tight, pinecone shaped clusters of small, dark skinned grapes.

Burgundy is the spiritual home of Pinot Noir where the grape loves the cool climate and limestone soils. The wines here are famous for their subtlety, finesse and ability to age, with the best examples expressing the terroir of their individual vineyards.

Pinot Noir Around the World

While Burgundy is the reference point, Pinot Noir has found success in wine regions everywhere. In the New World, countries like the US, New Zealand and Australia have taken up the challenge of growing Pinot Noir and are producing wines that show the grape’s versatility and breadth.

In California, the cool climate regions of Sonoma Coast, Russian River Valley and Santa Barbara have become hotbeds for great Pinot Noir. The wines from these regions often have bright red fruit flavours, silky tannins and a hint of spice and are loved by both casual drinkers and connoisseurs.

Marlborough and Central Otago in New Zealand have also gained international recognition for their juicy and aromatic Pinot Noirs. These wines are known for their fruit purity often with cherry, raspberry and plum flavours and a sense of minerality that is unique to the country.

Australia, particularly the Yarra Valley and Mornington Peninsula, has found a home for Pinot Noir too. The wines from these regions are praised for their balance and complexity with a harmonious mix of fruit, earth and spice.

The Magic of Pinot Noir

What’s the magic of Pinot Noir? It’s its versatility and sense of place. Pinot Noir can be light and delicate or rich and full bodied and is a perfect match for many dishes. Whether with roasted chicken, grilled salmon or earthy mushroom risotto, Pinot Noir can complement flavours without overpowering them.

Plus Pinot Noir’s high acidity and moderate alcohol makes it a refreshing choice for summer and its complexity and depth can be comforting in winter. Its ability to adapt to different climates and winemaking styles means there’s a Pinot Noir for everyone.

How to celebrate World Pinot Noir Day

Celebrating World Pinot Noir Day is easy: open a bottle of your favourite Pinot Noir and enjoy. Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or just starting your wine journey this is a great opportunity to try many Pinot Noirs.

If you want to broaden your horizons consider hosting a Pinot Noir tasting with friends or attending a local wine event. Try different regions and styles from the classic Burgundian to the new world. Take the time to appreciate the subtle differences in flavour, aroma and texture that make Pinot Noir so special.

If you’re feeling bold try pairing your Pinot Noir with unusual dishes. The wine’s versatility can match many cuisines from Mediterranean to Asian inspired. Experimenting with food pairings can increase your appreciation of the grape and bring out new dimensions in both the wine and the dish.

End

World Pinot Noir Day is more than just a celebration of a grape; it’s a celebration of the craftsmanship, passion and dedication that goes into every bottle of wine. Pinot Noir’s journey from its ancient roots in Burgundy to its global status today is proof of its timeless appeal and the love winemakers and wine lovers have for this special grape.

International White Wine Day

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August 4th is International White Wine Day and wine lovers across the world are toasting to the beauty of white wines. This day is all about celebrating the diversity, sophistication and fun of white wines. From zippy Sauvignon Blanc to buttery Chardonnay, white wines have something for every palate. Here we’ll look at the history of International White Wine Day, the characteristics of popular white wine varietals and how to celebrate.

History of International White Wine Day

International White Wine Day was created to celebrate and enjoy all the white wines of the world. The exact origin of this day is unknown but it’s become a day for wine lovers to drink their favourite white wines, learn about different varietals and share with others. No matter where you are in the world, now is the perfect time to pour a glass of white wine.

Characteristics of Popular White Wine Varietals

White wines are made from many different grape types, each with its own characteristics. Here are some of the most popular white wine varietals:

Chardonnay

Chardonnay is the most famous and widely planted white wine grape in the world. From the Burgundy region of France, Chardonnay is a chameleon grape that can produce many different styles, from lean and mineral driven to rich and oaky. Key characteristics of Chardonnay are green apple, pear, citrus and tropical fruit with buttery and vanilla notes from oak.

Sauvignon Blanc

Sauvignon Blanc is known for its high acidity and zesty flavors. This grape is grown in many regions including France’s Loire Valley and Bordeaux, New Zealand and California. Sauvignon Blanc wines have flavors of lime, green apple, passion fruit and gooseberry with herbaceous and grassy notes. The crispness of Sauvignon Blanc makes it perfect for warm weather and seafood.

Riesling

Riesling is an aromatic and versatile grape that can produce wines from bone dry to lusciously sweet. From Germany, Riesling is now grown in many regions including Alsace, Austria, Australia and the US. Dry Rieslings have high acidity and flavors of green apple, lime and apricot with a minerality. Sweet Rieslings have honeyed notes and tropical fruit flavors.

Pinot Grigio/Pinot Gris

Pinot Grigio, also known as Pinot Gris, is a popular white wine with a light, crisp and refreshing profile. This grape is grown extensively in Italy where it produces Pinot Grigio wines that are light bodied with flavors of lemon, green apple and almond. In Alsace, France the same grape is called Pinot Gris and produces wines that are richer and more aromatic with flavors of peach, pear and honey.

Chenin Blanc

Chenin Blanc is a versatile grape that can produce many different wine styles from sparkling to sweet dessert wines. It’s most famous in the Loire Valley of France where it produces wines with high acidity and flavors of apple, quince and honey. South Africa is another major producer of Chenin Blanc, often making wines with tropical fruit flavors and a full bodied texture.

International White Wine Day

International White Wine Day is a great excuse to try and enjoy the many different white wines out there. Here are some ideas to celebrate:

Host a White Wine Tasting

Get friends and family together for a white wine tasting. Choose a few white wines from different regions and varietals and provide tasting notes for each. Have guests share their thoughts and preferences and consider pairing the wines with food to make it more fun.

Food Pairings

White wines are very food friendly. Try pairing different white wines with different dishes to find new flavor combinations. For example Sauvignon Blanc pairs well with goat cheese and fresh salads, Chardonnay with creamy pasta and grilled chicken. Riesling is great with spicy Asian food and Pinot Grigio with seafood and light appetizers.

Visit a Winery

If you can, visit a local winery to learn more about white wine and taste wines directly from the source. Many wineries offer tours and tastings that will give you insight into the winemaking process, the history of the vineyard and the wines they produce. This is a fun and educational way to celebrate International White Wine Day.

Try Something New

Use International White Wine Day as an excuse to try a white wine you’ve never had before. Whether it’s a lesser known varietal like Viognier or Albariño or a white wine from an unfamiliar region, trying new wines is an adventure for your palate.

Share on Social Media

Join in on the online fun by sharing your International White Wine Day on social media. Use #InternationalWhiteWineDay and #WhiteWine to connect with other wine lovers and see how others are celebrating. Share photos, tasting notes and food pairing ideas to inspire others and spread the white wine love.

Happy International White Wine Day!

 

 

Albariño Day 2024: A White Wine Like No Other

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On August 1st wine lovers everywhere will be toasting Albariño Day 2024. This special day is all about Albariño, a white wine like no other with its zesty acidity, aromatic nose and food pairing abilities. From the Rías Baixas region of Spain Albariño has gone global and is now celebrated worldwide. Here we look into the history, characteristics and global celebrations of Albariño and why it deserves a day of its own.

Albariño History

Albariño comes from the Rías Baixas region of Galicia in the north west of Spain. This coastal area has a maritime climate with cool temperatures and high rainfall making it perfect for growing Albariño. The grape has been grown here for centuries with records dating back to the 12th century. Its name is thought to come from the Latin word “albus” meaning white, referring to its pale colour.

The region’s terroir with its granitic soils and Atlantic influence gives Albariño its mineral notes and zesty acidity. The vineyards on steep slopes and trellised to maximize sun and air give the grapes small, thick skinned and full of flavour.

Albariño Characteristics

Albariño is loved for its fresh and zesty profile. Here are the key characteristics:

  1. Aromatics: Albariño has a pronounced aromatic profile with intense citrus notes of lemon and lime, peach, apricot and melon. Floral notes of honeysuckle and jasmine are also present adding complexity to the wine.
  2. Acidity: Albariño’s high acidity is one of its standout features giving the wine its crisp and refreshing quality. This acidity not only makes it food friendly but also ageing worthy.
  3. Minerality: The granitic soils of Rías Baixas give Albariño its minerality often described as salty or flinty. This adds depth and structure to the wine and balances its fruitiness.
  4. Texture: Despite its high acidity Albariño is usually medium to full bodied with a smooth slightly oily texture that coats the palate.

Albariño Day

International Albariño Day is a global event that brings together wine lovers, sommeliers and winemakers to celebrate this fantastic grape variety. On August 1st events and activities will be held worldwide from tastings and vineyard tours to educational seminars and social media campaigns.

 

Tastings and Pairings

Many wine bars, restaurants and wineries will be hosting Albariño tastings on International Albariño Day. These are a great opportunity to try different Albariño wines from Rías Baixas and other regions where the grape is grown such as Portugal’s Vinho Verde region, California and Australia. Tasting Albariño with food is a big part of these tastings as the wine’s acidity and aromatic profile make it perfect for a wide range of dishes. Popular pairings include:

  • Seafood: Albariño’s minerality and citrus notes are perfect for seafood. Try it with oysters, clams, shrimp or grilled fish.
  • Cheese: The wine’s acidity cuts through the richness of creamy cheeses like goat cheese or Brie.
  • Asian Cuisine: The aromatic and spicy notes of Albariño pair well with sushi, Thai curries and Vietnamese spring rolls.

Vineyard Tours and Seminars

Winery tours and educational seminars are also part of International Albariño Day. In the Rías Baixas region visitors can visit the vineyards, learn about the terroir and discover the winemaking processes that give Albariño its character. Seminars led by sommeliers and wine experts will delve deeper into the history of the grape, its cultivation and its global importance.

Social Media

Social media is also part of the global Albariño Day celebrations. Wine lovers are invited to share their Albariño experiences using #InternationalAlbarinoDay and #Albarino. These posts will include photos of tastings, pairing suggestions and personal stories creating a virtual Albariño community.

Albariño Beyond Spain

While Rías Baixas is the home of Albariño, the grape has found success in other parts of the world. In Portugal Albariño (known as Alvarinho) is a key component of Vinho Verde wines which are known for their light and sparkling style. In the US, particularly in California’s Central Coast and Oregon’s Willamette Valley winemakers have adopted Albariño and are producing wines that retain the grape’s acidity and aromas while showcasing regional characters. Australian Albariño from cooler regions like Tasmania also shows the grape’s versatility and ability to adapt.

The Future of Albariño

As Albariño grows in popularity the future looks good. The grape can produce high quality wines in many climates and is versatile in food pairing. Efforts to promote sustainable viticulture in Rías Baixas and other regions will ensure the Albariño vineyards remain healthy and productive for generations to come.

International Albariño Day not only celebrates a great wine but also the winemakers who make it. As we toast on August 1 we salute the history, character and global presence of Albariño. Cheers to many more years of enjoyment and discovery.



The Old Vine Project in South Africa: Saving Heritage and Making Magic

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The Old Vine Project (OVP) in South Africa is awesome. It’s all about saving the old vineyards. These old vines, often decades old, make the best wines in the world. OVP celebrates the history and heritage of the old vines and sustainable viticulture and making great wine. Here’s the details on the Old Vine Project in South Africa, 1 August.

Old Vine Project

The Old Vine Project was founded in 2016 by André Morgenthal and Rosa Kruger, old vine fanatics. It was born out of a love for South Africa’s vineyards and a need to save and promote them. South Africa has the oldest vineyards in the world with vines dating back to the 1880s. These old vines, mostly planted with Chenin Blanc, Cinsault and Semillon, make wines with incredible depth, complexity and character.

The OVP will:

  1. Save Old Vines: By finding, recording and protecting vineyards that are at least 35 years old, OVP will ensure the survival of these assets. Old vines are more robust and better adapted to the environment so they’re valuable in a changing climate.
  2. Promote Sustainable Viticulture: OVP will promote sustainable farming practices that look after the vines and the environment. This means reducing chemicals, promoting biodiversity and conserving water.
  3. Make Great Wine: Old vine wines are often better because of the intense flavours and balanced acidity these vines produce. OVP will work with winemakers to showcase old vine wines and get them into the market.
  4. Educate and Promote: Through events, tastings and educational programs OVP will educate people about old vines and get them to love the wines.

Why Old Vines

Old vines are special in the world of wine for many reasons. Firstly they are a living connection to the past, a heritage of viticulture in a region. In South Africa many old vineyards were planted by early settlers and have survived wars, economic downturns and changes in farming practices. These vines are a testament to the people who have looked after them over the years.

Secondly old vines make better fruit. As vines age their root systems grow deeper and can access water and nutrients from deeper in the soil. This can result in grapes with more intense flavours and balanced acidity. Old vines also produce less fruit which can further improve the quality of the fruit.

Thirdly old vines are more robust to environmental stresses. Their deep root systems can withstand drought and their established canopies can protect against pests and diseases. This is especially important in a changing climate as it will ensure the sustainability of viticulture in a world of changing conditions.

Results of the Old Vine Project

Since the OVP started we have made great progress in saving South Africa’s viticultural heritage and promoting old vine wines. One of the OVP’s biggest successes has been the creation of a certification for old vine wines. Wines made from vineyards that are at least 35 years old can carry the Certified Heritage Vineyards logo so consumers can find and love these wines.

OVP has also brought grape growers and winemakers together. By matching growers with winemakers who love old vine wines the project has ensured that these grapes are used to make great wines that showcase their unique character. This has resulted in a growing number of amazing old vine wines that are getting recognition both locally and internationally.

Furthermore OVP has educated people about old vines. Through events, tastings and educational programs the project has educated consumers, industry and media about old vine wines. This has created a market for these wines and provided financial support for growers and encouraged the preservation of old vineyards.

Problems and Future

Despite its successes the Old Vine Project has problems. One of the biggest is the economic pressure on grape growers. Maintaining old vineyards is costly and growers may be tempted to replace old vines with younger more productive ones. To address this OVP is working to create economic incentives for growers to preserve old vines such as promoting premium pricing for old vine wines.

Another problem is climate change. Old vines are more robust than younger ones but not immune to climate change. OVP is working to promote sustainable viticulture practices that will mitigate the effects of climate change and ensure the long term survival of old vineyards.

Going forward OVP will focus on finding and saving more old vineyards in South Africa. By continuing to promote old vine wines and bringing growers and winemakers together the project hopes to keep these heritage vines part of South Africa’s viticultural fabric.

The Old Vine Project in South Africa is a must do that celebrates and saves the country’s viticultural heritage. By saving old vineyards, promoting sustainable farming and showcasing old vine wines the OVP is ensuring these living treasures will continue to exist. August 1st is the day wine lovers and industry professionals come together to celebrate and support old vines. As more and more consumers get to love the character and history of old vine wines the future looks bright for South Africa’s old vineyards and the people who care for them.