Overhex : Survivor Pinotage 2017

A South African Pinotage with Prune and Cherry Aromas

The Survivor Pinotage from Overhex is a single-varietal Pinotage red wine from the Swartland appellation of South Africa. The fruit was harvested from low-yielding old vines, planted in deep red Oakleaf and Hutton soils, whose superb water retention gives the grapes a long window during which to ripen, along with lending a unique structure to the wine. The vines are planted in a way that maximizes the cooling effects of the Benguela sea breezes, allowing for milder conditions during an otherwise very hot and dry summer season. The harvest was carried out in the cool hours of the morning. The fruit was then transported to the winery using dry ice and sulphur in order to help prevent oxidation. The fruit was cold-soaked for 24 before inoculation with 24 hours of time spent on the skins in order to extract color and flavor. Then, fermentation took place for 4 to 6 days at 22 to 25°C. Malolactic fermentation was carried out in 300L medium toast Vicard and Taransaud barrels, of which 20% was new and the rest were second or third fill. Along with 95% French oak, 5% American oak was used to lend a certain fruit and vanilla component to the wine. The wine was matured in barrel for 15 months before bottling.

In the glass, the Survivor Pinotage from Overhex displays a deep, inky purple color. Aromas of prune, plum and ripe red cherries tumble forth, complemented by elegant hints of spice and cedar. The entry on the palate is rich in fruit, leading to intense flavors of dark red berries, followed by a spicy finish with big tannins and a lingering smoky aftertaste. An excellent wine to pair with barbecue ribs, roast chicken or a good book on a cool autumn evening.