Stellenbosch 2018 Vintage Report
Defining the 2018 vintage in Stellenbosch requires looking beyond the averages, as it was a year of contrasting fortunes and precise timing.
Spring was steady if unremarkable, with the vines navigating the vulnerable flowering stage without major incident.
Summer turned up the intensity. With 12 days soaring above 35°C, the vines faced a stress test. Yet, thanks to sufficient water reserves, the canopy remained green, protecting the clusters from sunburn. A key factor was the dramatic diurnal shift (12.3°C), ensuring that despite the daytime warmth, acidities remained razor-sharp.
The season concluded with a pristine harvest window. With negligible rain (6mm), pickers could wait for perfect phenolic maturity, harvesting each block at its absolute zenith.
**Style:** Rich, opulent, and structured wines built for the long haul.
About Stellenbosch
The historic heart of South African wine, Stellenbosch is a mountainous region with diverse soils. It excels in Bordeaux blends and Pinotage, offering a style that bridges the Old and New Worlds.
Climatic Blueprint
Growing Degree Days (GDD)
Total Rainfall
Sunshine Hours
Diurnal Shift
Frost Days
Average Temperature
Historical Context (10 Years)
Comparison of growing season heat accumulation vs regional average.
Want to explore vineyards in Stellenbosch?
Discover the estates shaping the legacy of this region.
