Neethlingshof Estate Malbec, Stellenbosch

Description

Neethlingshof Estate Malbec a South African red wine made from 100% Malbec grapes grown in the Stellebosch wine-growing region.

Neethlingshof Estate is a historic winery located in Stellenbosch, South Africa, boasting a rich tradition dating back to 1692 when Willem Barend Lubbe, a German settler, began farming the site after it had been granted to him by Governor of the Cape Simon van der Stel. The estate is is located in the heart of the Stellenbosch wine-growing region flanked by the Bottelary Hills and Papegaaisberg Mountains. The estate takes its name from its 19th century owner, Marthinus Laurentius Neethling, who served as mayor of Stellenbosch and was a member of the Cape Parliament. The estate boasts some of the best-preserved traditional Cape Dutch buildings, offering visitors a glimpse into South Africa’s rich winemaking heritage. The estate has been through various ownerships through the years but, since 2022, it has been owned by les Grands Chais de France.

As a member of the Biodiversity & Wine Initiative, the estate is acknowledged for its protection of indigenous habitat: the 378 ha winery has set aside 127 ha for conservation. Both red and white varietals are cultivated, with the bias marginally in favour of whites. The major red varietals are Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Malbec and Pinotage, whilst the main white grape varieties are Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc, Chardonnay and Gewurztraminer. The main soil types found on the farm are Oakleaf and Tukulu. Winemaker is Hannes van Zyl.

The grapes for the Neethlingshof Estate Malbec come from established vineyards planted on Tukulu and Oakleaf soils. These are located on a westerly slope between 120m and 150m above sea level. They receive supplementary irrigation through a drip system only when necessary. After harvest and crushing the juice remains on the skins for 24 hours. Fermentation takes place in rotation tanks and is completed in small barrels. After malolactic fermentation, the wine is matured in 300L French oak barrels for 9 months prior to bottling.