# Round Mountain Sauvignon Blanc (2023)

- **Producer:** Stark-Condé Wines
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Sauvignon Blanc
- **Region:** Western Cape, South Africa
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 13.5%
- **Average price:** €20
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 8–12 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** gooseberry, grapefruit, lemon, butter, pastry, biscuit

## About this wine

The Stark-Condé Round Mountain Sauvignon Blanc originates from the Jonkershoek Valley in Stellenbosch, South Africa. The wine is named in tribute to José Condé's mother-in-law, whose Japanese maiden name translates to 'round mountain,' referencing the vineyard's location. The grapes are sourced from an old, high-elevation vineyard on the Stark-Condé farm, characterized by decomposed granite soils. The producer, Stark-Condé Wines, was founded by Hans and Midori Schroder, with José Condé and his wife Marie now playing a significant role. The estate is committed to organic farming practices, with this wine being certified organic by Ecocert. The winemaking approach aims to highlight the unique fruit intensity of the site, moving away from more common herbaceous profiles found in some South African Sauvignon Blancs.

## Interesting facts

- The 'Round Mountain' name honors José Condé's mother-in-law's maiden name, Maruyama (Japanese for 'round mountain').
- The vineyard is organically farmed and situated on one of the highest slopes of the Stark-Condé farm.
- The wine is intentionally crafted to showcase fruit intensity over traditional green herbaceous notes.
- This Sauvignon Blanc is certified organic by Ecocert.

## Food pairing

The wine's bright acidity cuts through richness and balances creamy sauces, while its fruit-forward character complements lighter proteins and vegetables. Herbal notes in the food can echo subtle nuances in the wine.

## Wine making process

The Stark-Condé Round Mountain Sauvignon Blanc is produced from 100% Sauvignon Blanc grapes. Following pressing and natural settling, the juice is racked 'dirty' to barrel for fermentation, primarily using older, neutral French oak with a small proportion of new oak. The wine is aged for approximately nine months on its lees, with partial lees stirring employed to enhance balance and palate weight. The wine is bottled with minimal filtration. The vineyard is organically farmed and certified by Ecocert. The 2023 vintage experienced a dry, warm mid-summer, which contributed to favorable vine condition and even ripening.