In 2009, Perdeberg experienced a great winter with an above average rainfall that came almost every second week and continued until the middle of November 2009. From mid-November to harvest time, there was little or no rain, which is perfect for the ripening of grapes. Harvesting was commenced a bit later than the previous year’s harvest, due to the cooler growing conditions in the early and half-way section of the growing season.
This year’s vintage will be remembered for the following unique reason: the white grapes ripened at their normal rate, while the red grapes took their time and ripened slower than usual. This was utopia for planning cellar activity, as the team had the opportunity to harvest more than 90% of the white grapes and approximately 15% of the red grapes. This gives Perdeberg the luxury of spending most of their time in the second harvest focusing on red grapes exclusively, making quality planning and selection very convenient. But this year’s crop will unfortunately be between 6 and 8% lower than 2009, due to rainy and windy conditions during the flowering period of certain cultivars. The Chenin Blanc, Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon harvest will approximately be the same as in 2009, while the Chardonnay, Pinotage and Semillon harvest is estimated to be down by between 15 and 20%.
Cooler growing conditions always prove beneficial for the production of cultivars: it slows down the ripening and allows red grapes to develop riper tannins, lower sugar levels, as well as a lower alcohol percentage.
As for the white wines, the Sauvignon Blanc shows a lot of greener, grassy flavours moving towards slightly riper fig flavours.
With the skill and assistance of Perdeberg’s superb winemaking team, 2010 will no doubt offer a range of wines to look forward to.
