Earth’s
Essence is the result of a patented process, which marries two completely
natural, uniquely South African winemaking ingredients two of which are
renowned for their anti-oxidant properties, to create an entirely new wooded
wine category.
Using
this innovative, authentic, natural and sustainable process negates the use of
added sulphites or preservatives.
“The
use of non-traditional woods in the winemaking process makes it completely new
and exciting,” says Louwritz Louw, Earth’s Essence Winemaker. “It is a
beautiful example of innovative winemaking in a modern era.”
He
points out that indigenous fynbos wood contains high levels of antioxidants,
and low tannin levels, making it ideal for use in wine making.
“By
using Rooibos and Honeybush wood during various stages in the winemaking
process their powerful anti-oxidants protect the wine naturally,” he adds.
“This is a major advantage for people who suffer from sulphur intolerance.”
Rooibos
grows naturally in the Cederberg area in the Western Cape, while Honeybush is
found only in the coastal districts and mountainous areas of the Western and
Eastern Cape in South Africa.
Louw
says that Earth’s Essence is an unconventional, high-quality, super-premium,
natural wine, preserved by nature. Originating from the Malmesbury Swartland
area in the Western Cape, it is made from the Pinotage grape varietal, making
it a truly South African product.
“Only
the healthiest grapes are used in the wine to ensure that the wine stays
protected throughout the winemaking process,” he explains.“The grapes are
harvested at optimal ripeness after which they are de-stemmed and crushed into
the fermentation tanks.”
The
Fermentation, with Rooibos and Honeybush wood, is done on skins. The wine is
removed from the skins and pressed earlier than usual to prevent the extraction
of hard tannins. In order to keep the wine sulphur free, it is also matured
with wood from the indigenous Rooibos and Honeybush. After maturation the wine
is fined, filtered and bottled.
Tasting
Notes:
Louw
explains that Earth’s Essence is an easy-drinking wine with a distinct flavour
and by replacing traditional oak in red-wine with Honeybush and Rooibos woods
the wine has a distinctive aroma and structure.
“The
Pinotage shows upfront fruit sweetness with prominent cranberries, Turkish
delight and dark chocolate aromas,” says Louw. “Nuances of nuts, Rooibos,
Honeybush and sweet basil are complimented by the grippy tannin structure and
the intense, lingering finish.”
He
says that true to its name, Earth’s Essence unlocks a whole new world of wine
by unearthing the natural beauty and taste through a world-class quality
winemaking process.
”There
is global trend of consumers searching for products that are more natural, that
contain less preservatives,” says Tania Theron-Joubert, Global Brand Manager
for KWV. “Up to now there is a limited selection of wines available to them,
this new innovative process will increase their options to choose from.”
Retailing for R89 per bottle Earth’s Essence is available nationwide at selected Makro and Checkers stores.
For more
information visit: www.earthsessence.co.za
or join the conversation on Twitter @EarthsEszence