Kleine Zalze is a family-owned winery nestled in the heart of the Cape Winelands. While winemaking has been practiced on a small scale since 1695, it was in 1996 that Kobus Basson and his family acquired the property, ushering in the modern era of Kleine Zalze. During this time, the estate’s soils underwent scientific mapping, evaluation, and replanting based on their unique terroir characteristics. Over more than two decades of continuous investment, Kleine Zalze has evolved into one of the most decorated wineries in Stellenbosch.
Kleine Zalze wines are renowned for their classical structure and complexity, coupled with vibrant flavor intensity. Exhibiting a distinctively South African style, they are refreshing, impeccably balanced, and ideal companions to a wide range of cuisines. Crafted using traditional methods with minimal cellar intervention, these wines benefit from the support of modern winemaking equipment.
The grapes for this wine were sourced primarily from our own vineyards, supplemented by select parcels from other blocks in Stellenbosch.
The grapes from each block were harvested at optimal ripeness and vinified separately. Prior to fermentation, the grapes underwent meticulous hand sorting at the winery to ensure only the highest quality fruit was selected. Following destemming, fermentation took place in a combination of stainless-steel tanks and traditional open-top fermenters. Throughout fermentation, a combination of punch-downs and pump-overs was employed at different intervals to achieve optimal extraction and to balance flavor and tannin levels. Care was taken to avoid over-extraction while maintaining density without compromising elegance. After primary fermentation, the grapes were gently pressed and transferred to French oak barrels (40% new, 30% second fill, and 30% third fill) for 19 months before final blending.
This wine epitomises the classic structure of Cabernet, eloquently expressing its origins. Initial herbal aromas give way to rich, intense dark fruit upon opening. On the palate, flavours of cassis and black cherries dominate, complemented by a subtle herbaceous undertone. With its refined structure, fine tannins, and seamlessly integrated oak, this wine leaves a lingering impression on the palate. It promises further refinement with careful ageing, offering enjoyment for at least a decade.
Food pairing suggestion: Braised beef.
There are no reviews yet.