( l )equinox wines

L Equinox Wines is situated in Swartland, more specifically Paardeberg.

The soils here are mostly decomposed granite with sandy topsoil, producing wines with purity of fruit and great acidity. All fruit is sourced from local farmers that farm biodynamically and organically. Grapes are hand picked early in the harvest season to capture their natural acidity and produce wines that are lower in alcohol.

Most of the whites are destemmed and fermented on the skins for 5-8 days, with a percentage that is whole bunch. The reds extract for 8-10 days and are fermented semi-carbonic and/or carbonically with 100% whole bunches. No yeasts, acid, settling agents or any other products are used during the winemaking process except a small amount of sulphur.

Currently L Equinox Wines produce around 2800 cases. None of the wines are certified organic or biodynamic but rather fall under a class in the South African regulatory board called “Alternative Wine Class”. The wines are analyzed after bottling and must have a total sulphur level of not more than 40mg/l to be allowed in the class and to be certified for export

Information

Domain Name:
( l )equinox wines
Winemaker's Name:
MC Stander
Country:
South Africa
Region:
Western Cape
Appellations:
Citrusdal mountians, Paardeberg, Swartland, Stellenbosch, Western cape
Grape varieties:
Syrah, Pinotage, Mourvedre, Carignan, Cinsault, Chenin blanc, Viognier, Colombar, Grenache blanc, Muscat d'alexandrie, Cabernet franc, Touriga nacional, Carignan/muscat d'alexandrie