"Timepiece" Sauvignon Blanc 2021 Coffet

The one proposed here, the Timepiece Sauvignon Blanc, is an interesting South African white wine produced by the Jordan winery. We are in Stellenbosch, in the Western Cape area. Stellenbosch is one of the most prestigious appellations in South Africa and covers an area of about 16 thousand hectares, including, in addition to Stellenbosch, also Paarl and Franschhoek. Here, the area is characterised by a Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and mild winters, and clay-limestone soils, which give the wines a special structure and minerality. Pure Sauvignon Blanc, in this case the grapes come from historic vineyards that are almost 40 years old. Winemaking in the cellar is traditional, although the producers experiment with some 'innovative' techniques here. 67% of the must is fermented in 228-litre French oak barrels of second and third passage, while the remaining third is fermented in 400-litre Italian amphorae. The amphora has the natural ability to keep the marc in constant suspension during fermentation, giving the wine greater complexity and structure. The must is then matured 'sur-lie', i.e. in contact with its own yeasts, for about 6 months, with occasional punching-down. Sulphites are only added to the wine at bottling. In the glass it has a beautiful, brilliant straw yellow colour. The nose presents intense and complex aromas. It recalls elderflower, melon and yeast. In the mouth, however, it is fresh, savoury and mineral, with a delicate but long finish. A versatile wine, it pairs well with a wide range of dishes. It is perfect with fish starters, white meats and seafood dishes.