Preserved by
Nature, with ‘no sulphites or preservatives added’
Tin Can PR - Kisha
van Vuuren – Strategist on behalf of KWV Wines
Cape Town – 17th November,
2014 – KWV has launched the world’s first ‘natural’ Pinotage wine.
Earth’s Essence has ‘no sulphites or preservatives added’, made possible by
utilising world first technology, following KWV’s joint acquisition of the
patent for a revolutionary process using indigenous Rooibos and Honeybush
wood during various stages in the winemaking process.
Earth’s Essence is
the result of a patented process, which marries two completely natural,
uniquely South African winemaking ingredients two of which are renowned for their
anti-oxidant properties, to create an entirely new wooded wine category.
Using this
innovative, authentic, natural and sustainable process negates the use of added
sulphites or preservatives.
“The use of
non-traditional woods in the winemaking process makes it completely new and
exciting,” says Louwritz Louw, Earth’s Essence Winemaker. “It is a beautiful
example of innovative winemaking in a modern era.”
He points out that
indigenous fynbos wood contains high levels of antioxidants, and low tannin
levels, making it ideal for use in wine making.
“By using Rooibos
and Honeybush wood during various stages in the winemaking process their
powerful anti-oxidants protect the wine naturally,” he adds. “This is a major
advantage for people who suffer from sulphur intolerance.”
Rooibos grows
naturally in the Cederberg area in the Western Cape, while Honeybush is found
only in the coastal districts and mountainous areas of the Western and Eastern
Cape in South Africa.
Louw says that
Earth’s Essence is an unconventional, high-quality, super-premium, natural
wine, preserved by nature. Originating from the Malmesbury Swartland area in
the Western Cape, it is made from the Pinotage grape varietal, making it a
truly South African product.
“Only the healthiest
grapes are used in the wine to ensure that the wine stays protected throughout
the winemaking process,” he explains.“The grapes are harvested at optimal
ripeness after which they are de-stemmed and crushed into the fermentation
tanks.”
The Fermentation,
with Rooibos and Honeybush wood, is done on skins. The wine is removed from the
skins and pressed earlier than usual to prevent the extraction of hard tannins.
In order to keep the wine sulphur free, it is also matured with wood from the
indigenous Rooibos and Honeybush. After maturation the wine is fined, filtered
and bottled.
Tasting Notes:
Louw explains that
Earth’s Essence is an easy-drinking wine with a distinct flavour and by
replacing traditional oak in red-wine with Honeybush and Rooibos woods the wine
has a distinctive aroma and structure.
“The Pinotage shows
upfront fruit sweetness with prominent cranberries, Turkish delight and dark
chocolate aromas,” says Louw. “Nuances of nuts, Rooibos, Honeybush and sweet
basil are complimented by the grippy tannin structure and the intense,
lingering finish.”
He says that true
to its name, Earth’s Essence unlocks a whole new world of wine by unearthing
the natural beauty and taste through a world-class quality winemaking process.
”There is global
trend of consumers searching for products that are more natural, that contain
less preservatives,” says Tania Theron-Joubert, Global Brand Manager for KWV.
“Up to now there is a limited selection of wines available to them, this new
innovative process will increase their options to choose from.”
Retailing for R89
per bottle Earth’s Essence is available nationwide at selected Makro and
Checkers stores.
For more information visit: www.earthsessence.co.za or
join the conversation on Twitter @EarthsEszence
Ends
As partner of Red
Dawn IP Holdings, KWV holds 50% of the world-wide patent, meaning that no other
entity can use the indigenous plants, or their derivatives for alcoholic
beverage production unless done under licence from Red Dawn.
About KWV
KWV is one of the leading wine and spirit producers in South
Africa. Its head office is located in Paarl, in the Western Cape - a top wine
producing region. The company sources wines and grapes from the best and most
sought-after viticultural regions in South Africa. KWV is known internationally
for brands such as Roodeberg, KWV Wines, Laborie, Golden Kaan, Cathedral
Cellar, Cafe Culture, Wild Africa Cream and the KWV 3,5,10,12,15 and 20 Year
Old brandies. KWV is challenging convention with its two 2014 innovations, namely
its KWV Heritage XO Cognac and Nexus, the world’s first commercially available
30 year Old potstill brandy.KWV is a founder member of the Industry Association
for Responsible Use of Alcohol (ARA).
