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Testalonga

2023

‘Monkey Gone to Heaven’

Mourvèdre   |   Swartland - South Africa
Shelf Talker Spec Sheet Wine Label Bottle Image

About

‘Monkey Gone to Heaven’ Mourvèdre comes from organically farmed bush vines planted in the 2001 on slightly more clay rich Koffieklip soils of the Abbotsdale region on the foot slopes of the Paardeberg. This 2.5 acre block is shared with winemaker Jurgen Gouws of Intellego, who farms the block. The 2021 vintage provided ample yields and incredibly healthy fruit. The name comes from the eponymous Pixie’s song. “There was a guy, an underwater guy who controlled the sea, got killed by ten million pounds of sludge from New York and New Jersey, this monkey’s gone to heaven…”

The grapes were hand harvested and placed into open tanks for spontaneous whole cluster fermentation. After 12 days, the wine was pressed off the skins and was sent to three 500L French barrels for full malo and aging. The wine was blended & bottled with a gentle filtration and sulfur addition. No fining.

 

Stats

  • Grapes: 100% Mourvèdre
  • Vineyard: Abbotsdale (Paardeberg)
  • Vine Age: 22-years-old
  • Soil Type: Decomposed granite
  • Viticulture: Practicing organic
  • Fermentation: Native — stainless-steel (100% whole bunch)
  • Skin Contact: 12 days
  • Aging: Old 500L French barrels
  • Alcohol: 12.5%
  • pH: 3.36
  • Total Acidity: 4.9 g/L

Tasting Notes

A smooth, pure Mourvedre that keeps it clean—none of that gamey, rustic vibe you sometimes get. Ripe mulberry and raspberry hit first, followed by some herbal garrigue notes. Solid tannins give it structure, and it’s got just enough power to remain full of life.

Press & Reviews

The WineMag

91

"Grapes from an Abbotsdale vineyard planted in 2001. 100% whole-bunch fermented. Red and black berries, earth, spice and a touch of reduction on the nose. The palate is relatively rich and broad (alc: 12.87%) with moderate acidity and surprisingly soft tannins."

- Christian Eedes

Producer


Testalonga

Region


Swartland

Country


South Africa

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