Pieter Ferreira, Birdsong Extra Brut 2019

Description

Cultivars: 72% Chardonnay (Robertson and Cape Agulhas) and 28% Pinot Noir (Paarl)
Alcohol: 11.84%vol
TA: 6.10 g/l
pH: 3.12
RS: 3,6 g/l – Extra Brut

VINEYARDS & SOILS

Chardonnay, which constitutes 72% of the blend, was selected from two diverse geographical areas in the Cape Winelands chosen for the varying nuances their respective terroirs bring to the wine, namely Robertson and Cape Agulhas. The Pinot Noir component originates from a selected single parcel in Paarl. These regions’ vineyards are set on a diversity of soils comprising weathered shale, rich limestone deposits and decomposing granite.

WINEMAKING PHILOSOPHY & WINEMAKER’S COMMENTS

All grape-bunches are hand-picked, each bunch undergoing a thorough and stringent selection process in the vineyard as well as upon arrival at the cellar. Prior to the process of whole-bunch pressing the Pinot Noir component was allowed a short period of enzymatic colour extraction to draw sufficient natural colour. These bunches were then pressed and with the separation of cuvée from the taille, the clear cuvée juice was fermented in stainless steel. The Chardonnay component underwent the same process, with a portion undergoing fermentation in traditional barrels from Tonnellerie Artisanale de Champagne (Piece Champenoise). These various ferments from individual vineyard parcels are then selected by a rigorous tasting procedure to form the Birdsong blend. After the initial fermentation, the wine was prepared for secondary fermentation in the bottle. Here the wine was allowed to live on the lees for four years before the sediment was removed through the traditional process of remuage and dégorgement. The bottles were then corked and laid down for a further six months cork maturation.

TASTING NOTES

From the outset the wine lifts the spirit with a lovely light straw colour. The nose bears notes of lemon and white fruit, the wine entering the palate with crisp vibrant citrus flavours. That exuberant freshness is elevated with elegant red berry nuances and a raspberry-fruited brightness. A glorious interaction of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, the wine shows well-integrated fine mousse with classic yeasty brioche notes ending with a bright freshness and vivid maritime note.

Additional information

Pairs deliciously with freshly shucked oysters and other seafood.