Country: South Africa  Region: Western Cape   Category: Red Wine  Color:  Red Producer: Liberty Fairtrade "Charles Back was the driving force in a consortium that bought a failing co-operative in Citrusdal, in the Olifants River Valley. Charles was keen to have access to the fruit for his Goats do Roam wines, but also realised the potential that existed for the 50% of the co-op's production that was certified Fairtrade. The use of the name Liberty was linked more to this aspect of Fairtrade than it was to Liberty Wines. The social improvement engendered through the Fairtrade premium is, and will continue to be, liberating for the farmers who benefit from its impact. The fruit comes from the Berg en Dal farm, which has been committed to Fairtrade since 2003 and has been part owned by its employees since 2007. The vineyards are planted on sandy soils up to 600 metres above sea level, while cool Atlantic breezes blowing up the valley keep temperatures low enough for the bush vines to thrive. The Chenin Blanc is sourced from vines with an average age of 24 years (with some up to 41 years old) and displays a crisp apple freshness balanced by tropical fruit ripeness, while the Shiraz is bursting with lively red berry and cherry fruit, with soft ripe tannins. Both wines show impressive purity and offer excellent value." Winemaker: Jaco Brand Vineyards: The 67 hectares of vineyard are located on a variety of different facing slopes, which have a mixture of Koffieklip and red oak leaf soils. The vines are planted on Richter 99 rootstock and have an average age of 21 years. Controlled drip irrigation is used to avoid severe hydric stress which can occur due to the dry conditions common to the region. The grapes were picked by a mixture of machine and by hand at the beginning of March. Yields were six tonnes per hectare. Vinification: The grapes were de-stemmed and crushed on arrival at the winery and the juice then pumped into stainless steel tanks for fermentation, which took place at 26°C for seven days. Regular lees stirring, malolactic fermentation and six months of oak contact took place to increase the weight and structure of the wine. The wine was bottled after a gentle filtration. Tasting Notes: Deep purple in colour with attractive perfumes of dark berry and spiced plum fruit. Nicely balanced on the palate with soft, ripe tannins and a lively cherry and red-berry fruit finish. Food Suggestion: Serve with grilled meats and roast vegetable salads topped with toasted nuts. Closure: Stelvin  ABV:14.5%