Lelie Van Saron
Jade Red Blend 2022
Upper Hemel-En-Aarde
This project represents Natasha’s evolution as a winemaker, as she builds her identity in the South African wine industry. The name is meant as an homage to Natasha’s late cousin of the same name who was taken tragically during the pandemic. Jade, the element, conveys purity, harmony, and balance, and it has a luminous quality “like the heaven and stars – a connection between heaven and earth.” A portion of the profits of this range are donated to help provide mentorship to girls in her hometown. Jade differs from the other Lelie van Saron wines in that this range is a little more playful and experimental. This Syrah-based blend comes from vines planted between fields of indigenous fynbos in close proximity to the ocean (about 4-8 km as the crow flies). With the influence from the cool Atlantic Ocean, the valley is considered to be an exceptional cool-climate winegrowing region. Natasha really liked the spice of the Petit Syrah, which she felt was more satiny and elegant than traditional wines of this variety
Vineyard
Debos Vineyards, Weathered granite. Sustainably dry farmed wihtout herbicides or pesticides.
Winemaking
The grapes were hand sorted and processed separately. They were destemmed but not crushed in open-top fermenters. Spontaneous fermentation commenced within two days at an ambient cellar temperature. Fermentation lasted 2 weeks and the wine macerated on the skins for another week before being pressed in a basket press. After malolactic fermentation, the wine spent 9 months in older 225L oak barrels before blending and bottling.
Vintage
Due to a cool, wet spring, budding was budding and shoot growth were delayed. A moderate growing season produced even results.
Tasting Note
Layers of flavor, blanketed with dark berries and woven together with spice, tea leaves, and red roses. On the palate, the wine is full bodied with supple, juicy tannins. The finish is grippy and tantalizing.
Color
Red
Appellation
Upper Hemel-En-Aarde
Certifications
SUSTAINABLE
Farming
Sustainable - Dry Farmed
Trade Materials
