Spice Route Chakalaka 2018 brings together six varietals chosen for their ability to thrive in the Swartland. The vines grow as unirrigated bush vines rooted in deep, iron-rich koffieklip and oakleaf soils. Yields range from 2.5 to 4.5 tons per hectare, ensuring concentrated fruit with strong regional identity.
The team harvested the grapes by hand from mid-February to the end of March 2018. They destemmed and lightly crushed the fruit, then fermented it in open concrete fermenters. Manual punch-downs shaped the tannins and extracted colour. After fermentation, the wine moved to barrels for malolactic fermentation and further ageing. Each component matured separately in seasoned French and American oak for 12 months. Once blended, the final wine returned to old oak for additional refinement.
Chakalaka, a Zulu word meaning “togetherness,” captures the spirit of this wine. It celebrates diversity, harmony and the bold flavours that define the Spice Route style.