Bushmanspad Estate

The 2010 Harvest in the Robertson Valley reminds of Menno’s Dodge doing a trip to Swellendam in no time. CRAZY! But unlike Menno’s Dodge – we haven’t cut any corners!

The heat waves of 2010 have taken no prisoners and will surely go down in memory as being severe and decisive. Merlot, Malbec and Shiraz almost ripened at once and the talented winemaking team had to know their stuff to make the best of the difficult conditions. The vineyard teams did a sterling job in bringing in healthy, ripe grapes!

 

Putting the grapes through their paces in the cellar, we’re delighted to report that the quality is looking very promising and that the rapid ripening of the grapes hasn’t caused deterioration in quality. The rigid pump-over schedule is being carried out with great care and judgment to extract maximum flavour and ripe skin tannins. During a year like 2010, the skill of the winemaker is tested to the limit. Sugar ripeness levels in the grapes gives high alcohol levels, but the all important balance between sugar, acidity and flavour has to stay intact. Mother Nature has thrown us a “wild card” in 2010, but we’re enjoying every moment of it!

 

Luckily cooler weather has set in, giving all a break from the hecticness! Cabernet Sauvignon grapes are busy ripening and our first batch of Cab is fermenting beautifully! Mourvedre and Cabernet Franc have yet to ripen. We’re awaiting the full bloom of their potential with excitement.

 

Yields throughout the entire valley are down a great deal from previous vintages. However, the upside is the concentrated fruit flavours found in the grapes this year.

 

Sales of BUSHMANSPAD ESTATE wines continue to grow steadily and we’re delighted that the market and consumers are responding very favourably to our wines, nationally and abroad.

 

Would you like to become our “partner” in our stunning wine farm in the Boland? Now’s your chance! We’ve launched our “Estate Partner Program” where wine lovers from around the world can share in the joys of owning a wine farm but without any of the hassles. For an annual fee you receive an allotment of award-winning wines, delivered to your door, stays on the farm (Platinum members even get to spend a night at our stunning lodge in Gansbaai - www.whalesanctuarylodge.co.za ) and you enjoy an array of privileges not available to the public. Please contact us for further info on our wonderful “Estate Partner Program.” (info@bushmanspad.co.za )

 

Our sincere apperciation goes to everyone for your loyal support and for sharing this wonderful journey with us. Do visit us on the farm when you’re in the area.

 

With kind regards.