Iona Monopole Elgin Highlands Sauvignon Blanc 2023

Stylish and burgundian with lime and lemon undertones. Bright citrus, oyster shell minerality, and a hint of almonds and biscuit brioche on the finish. Beautiful floral notes and bright fresh acidity persist.

'Beautiful purity of limes and ripe gooseberry, with tropical, floral and fine herbal notes, ruby grapefruit and white pear drop on the finish. This is cool climate Sauvignon blanc – vibrant, mineral, elegant, balanced and delicate, with a long, layered and complex finish.' – Winemaker

The vineyards are between 9-15 years old. The grapes were hand-picked, before being whole bunch pressed. No settling enzymes were used, resulting in juice containing more solids. This wine was 100% wild fermented in a selection of 300L and 228L French oak barrels (31% new, the rest in 2nd, 3rd and 4th fill barrels). Lees stirring was done every 3rd week for 4 months to add complexity and texture. The wine remained on the lees for a total of 11 months. 12% of the wine went through malolactic fermentation to add richness and texture. Thereafter, the wines were racked and blended (26% Block F4, 18% Block F5, Kloof 1st 41% and Kloof 2nd 15%) in stainless steel tanks. The wine was fined and stabilised naturally for a period of three months before bottling.

Food Pairing
Pair the Iona Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc with a simply grilled sea bass.

The Estate
Surrounded by the Kogelberg Nature Reserve, the isolated Iona wine estate sports majestic views overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and a cool climate somewhere between Burgundy and Sancerre. Average temperatures are a brisk 16-17 degrees, but strong coastal breezes and a long growing season allow the Iona wine farm to extend hang times and push ripeness without sacrificing acidity. Utilising sustainable farming practises, the estate turns out an impeccably balanced set of wines led by their chiselled and mineral-driven Sauvignon Blanc.

Alcohol: 13.3% vol