2025 | Elgin 

This wine marks our 4th vintage from our Estate at Radford Dale Organic, in cool-climate Elgin. Aptly named Touchstone it refers both to the exceptional geology in which our vines are planted as well as to the stylistic inspiration point of Burgundy, where Alex Dale grew-up. These unique Bokkeveld Shale soils, characterised by a clay top layer and rich in minerals, impart a remarkable elegance to the wine.

Pale gold in colour with a subtle lime-tinged rim. The nose is fragrant with citrus blossom, complemented by hints of lemon, peach, and melon. Light-bodied yet persistent and full of flavour, the palate reveals notes of orange peel with a zesty lime edge. The acidity is well-integrated, offering balance and lift while preserving the wine’s delicate texture.

IN THE VINEYARD

This wine marks our third vintage with fruit from our very own vineyard at Radford Dale Organic. The 2024 winter kept pace with the long-term rainfall average and cold units only started accumulating in June. Despite early challenges from lingering effects of heavy rainfall and cooler soil temperatures, vines recovered well and benefitted from sufficient water, minimal pest and disease pressure, and generally stable weather conditions. A dry, moderate summer, particularly in February, created ideal ripening conditions, leading to healthy grapes with good balance.

WINEMAKING

The grapes were all hand-picked at dawn to capture freshness and acidity while retaining elegance in the flavour expression. The bunches were picked early in the morning and brought into our Organic cellar then hand-fed over a sorting table. Whole bunches were pressed, with alcoholic fermentation entirely carried out in barrel for 8–10 weeks. Racked out of barrel after 10 months on the lees, assembled and settled before bottling.

RECIPE PAIRING - HOT SMOKED TROUT FILLET WITH ASPARAGUS AND HOLLANDAISE