Stephan Claassen (FNB) Nataleé Botha (Kleine Zalze) RJ Botha (Kleine Zalze) Lizemari Geldenhuys (Kleine Zalze)
Driven by a passion for unadulterated vineyard expression showcased within the Kleine Zalze Vineyard Selection range and a resolute dedication to cementing South Africa’s global supremacy in Sauvignon Blanc, the Kleine Zalze team embarked on a mission to craft the Klein Zalze Vineyard Selection Sauvignon Blanc 2022. This extraordinary effort yielded a prestigious top 10 placement in the annual FNB Sauvignon Blanc SA Top 10 competition, a preeminent contest celebrating Cape Sauvignon Blanc. This year, the competition received 161 entries from wineries devoted to elevating South Africa’s paramount single-cultivar white wine grape.
RJ Botha, the cellarmaster at Kleine Zalze, emphasizes that his philosophy regarding Sauvignon Blanc is characterized by purity and simplicity. “My approach is clear: identify the optimal vineyards capable of shaping a Sauvignon Blanc that boasts a vibrant tapestry of flavor profiles. Subsequently, honor this exquisite palette by employing an uncomplicated and direct approach in the cellar,” he articulates.
A cold fermentation at 13°C, followed by an additional seven months of maturation on the lees in stainless steel tanks, constitutes a pivotal phase that enables the encapsulation and preservation of the authentic Sauvignon Blanc attributes bestowed by the vineyards.
“Our grapes are sourced from dryland vines that flourish on the periphery of False Bay in regions such as Stellenbosch, Durbanville, and Darling,” elucidates Botha. “Each of these terroirs contributes a distinct element to the final wine. Stellenbosch imparts a robust acidic backbone and serene white fruit. Durbanville introduces a melange of gooseberry and tropical notes. From Darling, we glean a crisp, verdant essence that, in synergy with the other components, becomes indispensable in the wine’s overall harmony.”
A scrupulously reductive approach is employed in the cellar to minimize oxygen exposure, including the liberal use of dry ice. Only free-run juice is employed, eschewing any impurities that might emerge from mashing and pressing processes.
“When it comes to Sauvignon Blanc, consumers seek a wine as pure as freshly fallen snow—or perhaps as pure as the driven dry ice that played its role,” jests Botha. “Hence, time is of the essence when crafting the Vineyard Selection Sauvignon Blanc, ensuring we do justice to the distinct offerings of each vineyard.”
Botha lauds the FNB Top 10 distinction as the pinnacle of achievement for every Sauvignon Blanc enthusiast. This sentiment rings true, especially as the number of South African Sauvignon Blanc producers proliferates, accompanied by an escalation in wine quality.
“As the sole local competition dedicated to Sauvignon Blanc, this platform remains the primary sounding board for creators of this category,” Botha remarks. “Kleine Zalze takes immense pride in securing a Top 10 position once again this year. This accolade arrives on the heels of our recent recognition as Best Achiever at the Veritas Awards, culminating in a festive period that honors our team’s diligent labor, keen attention to detail, and unyielding commitment to ensuring each Kleine Zalze offering attains the pinnacle of quality we all aspire to attain.”
