Strandveld Vineyards have reached a new milestone on their exciting journey of exceptional winemaking with the release of their maiden Noble Late Harvest Suikerbekkie 2012.

Named after the Cape Sugarbird, winemaker Conrad Vlok describes the Suikerbekkie as a ‘once off’ for now as it can only be produced in exceptional years. The dry autumn conditions of 2012 were particularly ideal, and Conrad notes that only a small amount of botrytis (the noble rot that lends rich flavours to dessert wines) was present on the grapes.

As a result the 2012 Suikerbekkie has been crafted in a dryer style than a traditional Noble Late Harvest with beautiful layers of honey contrasted by the mineral tones typical of cool climate Strandveld Sauvignon Banc.

Maturation in used French oak barrels for 24 months has lent complexity and a white port-like character to the wine, with a small lot of only 2 000 bottles produced. Natural acidity and sweetness are well balanced with the Suikerbekkie ending in a long, lingering lemon marmalade finish.

The Strandveld Suikerbekkie 2012 is available exclusively at the tasting room at R210. You can also order it online at www.strandveld.co.za.