2012 Newton Johnson Full Stop Rock

2012 Newton Johnson Full Stop Rock
BACKGROUND
The lower slopes of the Newton Johnson farm are undeniably
suited to Rhône/Mediterranean grape varieties. Alluvial
deposits of large stone fragments up to two meters deep require
vigorous growing vines to search for nutrients and water.
‘FULL STOP ROCK’ is how we define this jagged landscape.
Unlike Pinot noir that is sapped of its plump fruit and vitality,
robust vines like Syrah, Grenache, and Mourvèdre, thrive in
this type of soil. When we pioneered the Syrah grape in the
Hemel-en-Aarde Valley little was known of the potential styles
of Syrah-based blends from the cooler South African wine
areas. We were encouraged to discover clear-cut, invigorating
wines with compact black fruit, spice, perfume, and
sophisticated tannins.

WINEMAKERS TASTING NOTES
The worthy 2012 vintage is showing effortless integration. The
gorgeous scent of earthy violets and succulent plum blossom
swim airily around the glass weaving in between warm cloves
and slightly bitter star anise. A soft, juicy mass of red and black
fruit broaden the nose, held together by powdery mocha bean.
The plush texture coats the mouth, slightly chewy in the
middle, and the sleek, chalky tannins fade evenly towards the
finish. Great symmetry between fruit sweetness and the subtle
dryness of mocha bean that makes you salivate.

LOCATION & CLIMATE
The Hemel-en-Aarde Valley ranges from 2 to 8 km in
proximity to the Atlantic Ocean. The climate is cool and
temperate, where parallel mountain ranges channel the
southerly oceangoing winds through the appellation during the
summer. These winds in turn breathe regular sea mists and
overcast conditions, moderating the temperatures in the valley.
The average high temperature during the summer taken from
the preceding 5 vintages is 24.8ºC. Correspondingly, the winter
maintains around the mean average of 13.6ºC. The annual
rainfall is 820mm, with 50% falling in the winter months.
The ‘Upper Hemel-en-Aarde Valley’ appellation has fine,
gravelly soils of decomposed granite origin, rendering various
expanses and depth of clay in the subsoil.