COLOUR
Orange
TYPE
Still
VINTAGE
2023
GRAPE
Viognier, Chenin Blanc, Colombar, Grenache Blanc
PRODUCER
L'Equinox Wines
REGION
Western Cape
CHARACTERISTICS
Body
Medium
Sweetness
Dry
Acidity
Medium - High
Finish
Intensity
Tannins
AROMAS & FLAVOURS
ABOUT THIS WINE
Keep It Loose is an distinctive orange wine crafted by L'Equinox Wines, a small-scale producer founded in 2018 by winemaker MC Stander in the Paardeberg area of South Africa's Swartland region. The winery is dedicated to natural winemaking, emphasizing minimal intervention to allow the unique terroir and grape characteristics to shine through. This wine is particularly notable for its blend of four white grape varieties and its classification under South Africa's "Alternative Wine Class," highlighting its innovative approach. The philosophy centers on organic and biodynamic farming practices, ensuring a pure expression of the Western Cape's unique environment.
ALCOHOL
12.5%
AVG. PRICE
€35
STYLE
Natural
SULPHITES
YES
When to drink
Now or Later
Ideal temperature
10-12°C
INTERESTING FACTS
Fact 01
This wine is classified under South Africa's unique 'Alternative Wine Class' regulatory category.
Fact 02
The producer, L'Equinox Wines, crafts only about 2,800 cases of wine in total annually.
Fact 03
Grapes are sourced from vineyards practicing biodynamic and organic farming methods.
Fact 04
Winemaker MC Stander uses indigenous yeasts and adds only a minimal amount of sulfur.
FOOD PAIRING
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WINE MAKING PROCESS
The winemaking for Keep It Loose begins with grapes sourced from local farmers practicing biodynamic and organic viticulture in decomposed granite soils with sandy topsoil. Grapes are harvested by hand early in the season to preserve their natural acidity. In the cellar, a minimal intervention approach is strictly followed. Most white grapes are destemmed and undergo skin fermentation for 5-8 days, with a portion fermented as whole bunches. Fermentation relies solely on indigenous yeasts, and no acids, settling agents, or other additives are used, apart from a small amount of sulfur. To meet the "Alternative Wine Class" certification for export, the wine's total sulfur level is kept below 40mg/l.
