Heidedal Old Vine Cinsault 2023

Heidedal Old Vine Cinsault 2023 is a refined South African red wine crafted from old bush vines grown on the elevated Piekenierskloof plateau. Made from 100% Cinsault, this wine showcases vibrant fruit purity, floral elegance and soft tannins with a beautifully balanced finish.

Product Story

The grapes were handpicked during the cool early morning hours to preserve freshness and delicate aromatics. Around 30% whole bunch grapes were added to the destemmed fruit before a 24-hour cold soak in open foudres.

Fermentation took place with selected yeast strains at temperatures below 22°C to maintain elegance and fruit expression. Malolactic fermentation was completed in tank before the wine matured for eight months in older 500-litre French oak barrels. After bottling, additional bottle ageing helped soften and integrate the wine before release.

Tasting Notes

This old vine Cinsault displays a deep purple colour with expressive aromas of dark berries, blackcurrant, violets and subtle warm spice. The palate is silky and layered, combining juicy fruit with soft tannins and a smooth, elegant texture.

A lingering spicy note on the finish adds depth and refinement to this versatile red wine.

Style: Elegant, silky and fruit-driven
Grape variety: 100% Cinsault
Alcohol: 14.63%
pH: 3.57
Total acidity: 5.6 g/l
Residual sugar: 4.0 g/l
Serving temperature: 14–16°C
Cellar life: 8–10 years

Food Pairing

Heidedal Old Vine Cinsault pairs beautifully with Mediterranean and French-inspired dishes. Enjoy it with ratatouille, boeuf bourguignon, niçoise salad, roasted lamb, grilled sausages, duck or braised pork.

It also complements mature cheeses and traditional French dishes such as escargot exceptionally well.

Origin: Piekenierskloof

The Piekenierskloof plateau lies around 160 km north of Cape Town at elevations between 600 and 750 metres above sea level. The old, ungrafted bush vines thrive in sandy loam soils and benefit from cooling evening air flowing inland from the Atlantic Ocean.

The cooler 2023 growing season, combined with regular rainfall during harvest, helped create wines with excellent freshness, elegant structure and complex fruit character.

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