New staff, picnics and news from the vines:  so begins our quarterly newsletter for 2010!

The Sauvignon Blanc is developing nicely and nearing harvest time. We’re watching the weather constantly and taking samples regularly; by all accounts it seems we will start picking next week. It will be interesting to taste the grapes before the wine is made – be sure to drop into the tasting room to taste the fresh bunches from Elim and Stellenbosch on our harvest days.

In addition to regular testing, taste is very important because of our height above sea level and slow evolution of flavours. Each block must be judged on its own merit – a long but rewarding job for Louis and the team!

We’ve had a wonderfully cool vintage so far which is great for the white wines, and it looks like the temperature will pick up just in time to optimise the red grape ripening.

It’s a good job we’re nearing harvest time as we need to replenish our sold-out stocks of the ever-popular Land’s End Sauvignon Blanc. Hidden Valley Hidden Secret is also out of stock – owing in part to its listing on Korean Airlines. No need to panic as we will bottle in April or early May – but be sure to get your orders in to avoid missing out!

A brief reminder to locals that we show at the Stellenbosch Market every Saturday between 9am and 2pm. This takes place on the grounds at Oude Libertas; be sure to pop by to take advantage of special offers. Available to all is this month’s special price of R35 for the Land’s End Rosé – to order the wine email Carle at carle@hiddenvalleywines.com.