Africa Travel WeekLove wine? Here’s some good news: Jordan Wine Estate in Stellenbosch has recently launched an innovative collection of heritage-driven single-variety wines.
Aptly entitled Timepiece, their new bottlings originate from their vineyards, now officially older than 35 years and certified as ‘heritage vineyards’ by the Old Vine Project.
As some background on this family-run business, Jordan Wine Estate owners, Gary and Kathy Jordan, have been making world-class wines on the estate since 1993, although the farm’s history dates back to well over 300 years.
The launch of Timepiece signifies a connection between old and new, allowing current and future generations of wine-aficianados to fully appreciate the history of winemaking in South Africa.
2022 Timepiece wines
“We are very excited to be releasing the Timepiece 2019 Chenin Blanc and 2020 Sauvignon Blanc, the first two wines in the Timepiece range, made from our oldest vineyards, planted in 1983 on Jordan Wine Estate,” says Kathy Jordan.
Fermented and matured in a combination of French oak barrels and amphorae (traditional clay pots) for a total of eight months, the newly released wines promise a complexity of flavours.
“Using amphorae in the maturation process for both the old vine Chenin Blanc and Sauvignon Blanc captures the unique integrity of the sites,” explains Sjaak Nelson, winemaker at Jordan, for almost 23 years. “The use of oak barrels gives body and structure to complete the wine.”
The Timepiece Chenin Blanc has a crystalline palate supported by bright acidity and a savoury finish, carrying the aromas of angelica, quince and orchard fruits. The 2020 Sauvignon Blanc flavours are vibrant, in an old-world style, with a long, leesy, yet delicate finish and hints of elderflower and honeydew melon.
Jordan Wine Estate’s Timepiece range is expected to grow throughout the next decade with new variants, including Riesling, Chardonnay, and Cabernet Sauvignon.
The Timepiece logo
What many wine-aficionados will also find interesting is the story behind the Timepiece logo. Penned by the hand of Ted Joran, the original founder of Jordan Wine Estate, it pays homage to his impact on the very first plantings back in 1983.
“Much of my life has been spent nurturing these gnarly old vines planted by my Dad, Ted many decades ago,” explains Gary Jordan. “I am confident that my son, Alex, will continue to cherish them too. These limited-release, heritage-certified, single-vineyard wines ensure that our guests and customers can collect and enjoy our life’s work from our special estate in Stellenbosch.”
Interested in supporting the industry on your next visit to the Western Cape? Set yourself up for a weekend of wine tasting at Jordan Wines in Stellenbosch.
