2009 Sterhuis Viognier, Cape of Good Hope, South-Africa, Stellenbosch

The fruit for this wine is grown on the slopes of the Bottelary Hills North West of Stellenbosch on decomposed Granite soils. Sterhuis (star house) originated during the 17^th century when inhabitants of Cape Town confused the light on the farm with the evening star Venus.

The Viognier was fermented in older French oak with natural yeasts. The wine was made in an oxidative style. After fermentation and three months on the lees, with occasional bâtonnage, the wines were blended and bottled.

The motto of this domain is ‘non est ad astra mollis e terres via’ (there is no easy way from the earth to the stars). This symbolises the dedication to wines of exceptional quality. This wine is a manifestation of their philosophy.

Hugging the lofty slopes of the Bottelary Hills, caressed by crisp ocean breezes from both the Atlantic and Indian, these vineyards are indeed touched by the stars. For here, in the deep, coffee-coloured soils, grapes of stellar quality are grown. The unusually cool microclimate allows the fruit to develop unhurriedly, gradually ripening to full intensity. Winemaker Johan Kruger, has a minimalistic, natural approach to work, producing wines of exceptional personality and charming honesty.