Hallgarten explores more of South Africa
Hallgarten & Novum Wines, has announced the latest additions to its South African portfolio, with the introduction of Lomond and Spioenkop Wines further expanding its presence in the country.
Lomond Wines is within view of the sea on the slopes of the Ben Lomond Mountain in the Agulhas Plain in Cape Agulhas. Lomond becomes Hallgarten’s first producer from the region.
Lomond has been part of a conservation program to maintain the endangered Elim Fynbos – local flora indigenous to this region, which surround the vineyards. The Cape Floral Kingdom, as it is so aptly named, harbours over 9000 species of flora and is one of the eight heritage sites of South Africa. The UK is home to just 1500 wildflower species. Lomond’s farming practices are methodical, with the Fynbos conservation in mind in order to maintain this beautiful landscape and rich floral expanse.
On Lomond Wines, Hallgarten Head of Buying, Steve Daniel, commented: “Lomond make extreme maritime influenced wines. They bring attention to a different region of South Africa. Their unique Sauvignon Blanc epitomise the wild, rugged region from where they originate. They are a valuable addition to our portfolio in the current climate of chronic shortages from traditional Sauvignon Blanc producing areas. In addition, their campaign to maintain the endangered Fynbos is admirable and unique.”
Spioenkop Wines was established in 2008 by ex-engineer and sommelier Koen Roose and is located in the heart of the Elgin Valley, making the most of its cool microclimate and nutrient-poor soils. The vineyards for Spioenkop are located no lower than 200 metres above sea level, benefitting from protection of a circle of mountains around them that channel cool air from the Atlantic to the vines. The soils are clay-based with iron-rich ferricrete cobbles and shales that hold sufficient water but also allow effective drainage. Vines are planted in a high density to manage yields efficiently.
Steve Daniel continued: “Koen Roose is a maverick and is not afraid to push what is possible in South Africa. He makes extreme, no compromise wines which are grabbing attention in South Africa and beyond. The wines are pure expressions of high altitude, cool climate winemaking.”
South Africa has become one of the most popular winemaking nations in the UK. SAWIS reported that imports grew by 7% in volume and value by 23% despite the disruption caused by the pandemic in 2020. As the hospitality trade gains more traction in 2022, according to the CGA Group, the popularity for the South African wine sector is expected to continue growing.
Spioenkop and Lomond are not the only South African producer to join Hallgarten’s range in the past 12 months. Elgin-based Richard Kershaw MW’s, ‘Clonal Selection’ and ‘GPS’ series’ brought in to supplement Hallgarten’s premium offering from the country.
