Picked in small crates, from the truck and straight into whole-bunch pressing. Natural fermentation started after about 3 days. Thereafter wine was kept on the lees for as long as possible, because that is where the “magic” happens as complex flavours and texture develops. Because nature has already done the work, the winemaking process is kept as natural as possible with minimal interference.
Naudé Old Vines Colombard Langpad presents itself as a classic cultivar. Beginning with a gorgeous white peach and passion fruit on the nose, followed by pears and peaches. It finishes with a saline salty freshness. The resulting wine is beautifully balanced and precise. It is true to its origins, with a classical fine linear textural focus but a bright and bristling, prominent acidity. The long, saline finish will keep you coming back for more. I know it already sounds irresistible, but you gotta try and keep a few bottles back for ageing. This lovely white has an ageing potential of 10+ years. (Great things are worth the wait).
Arriving in South Africa during the 1920’s, Colombard (or Colombar as pronounced by some locals), became a variety that few talk about yet many (knowingly or unknowingly) often drink some form of it. Mostly used as a blending grape (or to produce Brandy or Cognac), Colombard’s neutral character opens itself up to a variety of personalities. But when the vines are planted in the right place and have been in the ground for long enough, Colombard becomes a mirror reflecting its terroir. This is when the grape is really able to shine.