Origin
Translated, DeMorgenzon means simply ‘the morning sun’ and was so named because it is the first part of the Stellenboschkloof Valley to see the sun due to its high altitude and aspect. The vineyards cover the top southern and eastern slopes of Ribbokkop, overlooking the pinnacle of Kanonkop from where a cannon was fired to alert the farms in the region that a ship had put into Table Bay.
Sourced again from cooler vineyard sites near False Bay in Stellenbosch, this time on soils with a mix of sandstone and degraded granite.
Producer
DeMorgenzon is a rapidly rising star of South Africa, let alone Stellenbosch. Attention to detail and perfectionist standards have elevated DeMorgenzon’s reputation since Hylton and Wendy Applebaum’s acquisition of the estate in 2003. Carle van der Merwe joined as head winemaker in 2010 – and although already highly regarded, it has been his working partnership with farm manager Danie de Waal that has taken quality to a new level.
Grape Variety
26% Roussanne, 25% Chardonnay, 19% Grenache Blanc, 17% Chenin Blanc and 13% Viognier.
Each variety was picked separately and at optimum ripeness, then fermented individually in a mix of French oak barrels (for varieties such as Chardonnay) and concrete eggs (for varieties like Viognier). The final blend was put together 8 months later and then the new wine was rested for 2 further months prior to bottling.
Food Match
Lemon roasted chicken with pancetta, thyme and garlic, or vegetarian lasagne – served with a rocket, balsamic and parmesan salad.
Alcohol Percentage
14%
In the Press
Gold – International Wine Challenge 2020 (2018 vintage)
Silver – International Wine Challenge 2018
Silver – Decanter World Wine Awards
Silver – International Wine & Spirits Awards 2018
Will (verified owner) –
Was pleasantly surprised with this wine not knowing what to expect. It was delicious and hit all the right notes. Will certainly buy again ASAP