Springfontein Jonathan’s Ridge Pinotage

Dr. Johst Weber first set foot on the virgin soils of Springfontein, “Strong Spring,” in 1994, right after the fall of Apartheid. He had a dream of creating a project that involved family, friends and a product that, in his words, “… is a combination of nature and human craftsmanship.” Springfontein Wine Estate is breathtakingly beautiful, the people are warm, and the ocean, with its icy wind that blows across the vineyards, is close by. Springfontein’s winemaker Tariro Masayiti, walks through the rows popping fruit into his mouth, chewing the seeds to find the moment of ripeness he is looking for. Along with the cool climate, pure limestone soils and Hildegard Witbooi’s diligent work in the vineyards, we are able to hand harvest the best of what our place gives us as beautiful fruit, from which we carefully handcraft natural wines that are structured, yet elegant and well balanced. The focus is on the varietals well know in South Africa: Chenin Blanc and Pinotage. In addition to the “old faithfuls” like Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay, we have small plantings of Petit Verdot, Semillon and Sauvignon Blanc.

Natural Fermentation is slower and results in much longer fermentation and results in more time for skin contact. This gives this wine more intense and more complex flavor profile. The Jonathan’s Ridge Estate Wine of Origin Walker Bay Springfontein is rich, full bodied with attractive dark red fruit, subtle oak spice, and sweet nuances of vanilla.