COLOUR
Red
TYPE
Still
VINTAGE
2018
GRAPE
Shiraz
PRODUCER
Luddite Wines
REGION
Western Cape
CHARACTERISTICS
Body
Full
Sweetness
Dry
Acidity
Medium - High
Finish
Long
Intensity
Pronounced
Tannins
AROMAS & FLAVOURS
ABOUT THIS WINE
The Luddite Shiraz 2018 hails from Luddite Wines in South Africa's Western Cape, specifically the Bot River appellation. Founded by Niels and Penny Verburg, the winery is committed to a philosophy of minimal intervention in winemaking. The 2018 vintage was shaped by ongoing drought conditions in the region, resulting in smaller berries and a concentrated fruit profile. The grapes are grown on the eastern slopes of the Houw Hoek Mountains, contributing to the wine's distinctive character. This wine is noted for its resilience and balance, a direct outcome of the challenging growing season and the producer's dedication to expressing the terroir.
ALCOHOL
14.5%
AVG. PRICE
€59
STYLE
Classic
VEGAN
YES
SULPHITES
NO
When to drink
Now or Later
Ideal temperature
16-18°C
INTERESTING FACTS
Fact 01
The Luddite name reflects a winemaking philosophy of minimal interference.
Fact 02
The 2018 vintage faced significant drought conditions.
Fact 03
Grapes are sourced from 'Young Block' and 'Old Block' vineyards.
Fact 04
The wine is vegan-friendly.
FOOD PAIRING
Read more
WINE MAKING PROCESS
The Luddite Shiraz 2018 was produced using grapes from Luddite's 'Young Block' and 'Old Block' vineyards. The 2018 vintage was characterized by drought, leading to smaller berries and reduced yields. The winemaking process involved fermenting the grapes from each block separately in open fermenters, with experimentation in including up to 40% stalks. The wine was pressed earlier than usual to allow for settling and underwent malolactic fermentation in tank before being racked to barrel. It was then aged for 24 months in a combination of French Oak barrels, ranging from new to sixth-fill, before bottling. A total of 6,680 bottles, along with magnums and double magnums, were produced.