Ridgeback Viognier Paarl 2022

Description

Ridgeback Wines is situated in the northern part of the picturesque town of Paarl in the Western Cape, on the northern slopes of the magnificent Paarl mountain. The farm extends over an area of 65 hectares. Retaining the rich heritage of the countryside’s proteas and fynbos, which flourish in the region. The vineyards are amongst the finest in the Cape, and the winery, which overlooks a small dam, is home to an abundance of water fowl which add to the beauty and peaceful ambience of this tranquil environment.

Ridgeback Wines has been awarded numerous accolades and medals since 2001, both locally and abroad. Esteemed winemaker, Toit Wessels, goes from strength to strength, refusing to settle for anything less than the best being released from the cellar.

There are very few high quality Viognier's in South Africa and this is unquestionably one of the very finest. The immaculate vineyards used in this premium niche wine are East-West facing and vertically shoot positioned. The vines are grown in Oakleaf and Clovelly soils and are irrigated according to soil moisture and leaf water potential requirements. A slightly leaner canopy enables good light penetration and effective bunch ripening.

The wine was matured in barrel for 9 months and batonaged regularly to develop mouthfeel. Mid-palate and wood integration were further enhanced by the use of larger barrels.

Intense, upfront notes of citrus blossom, glazed pineapple, white peach and a hint of lavender. A creamy midpalate is well supported by subtle oak spice and lingering ruby grapefruit on the elegant finish.