The wine is a blend of 90% Shiraz and 10% Viognier. The Shiraz component is from La Motte at Franschhoek, while the Viognier originates from the Helderberg area near Stellenbosch.

The Shiraz comes from the 2003 vintage and the Viognier from 2004. The 2003 vintage was preceded by a cool, wet winter. Relatively cool conditions prevailed during summer and lent distinctive varietal flavours to the wine. Favourable growing conditions caused abnormally large berries, yet the elegant wines produced showed good colour and concentration. The year was also characterised by healthy grapes and even ripening. The 2004 season was very late, which allowed a favourable, long ripening period. This was to the benefit of most varietals and excellent quality white and red wines were made.

Shiraz vineyards at La Motte grow in deep, sandy soil against a southern slope. The block is trellised according to the Perold system and managed to be perfectly balanced in leaf cover and yield. Grapes were harvested at 25 degrees Balling on 12 March. Yield is limited to 8 tons/hectare. It was the second harvest from this five year old vineyard. The Viognier vines grow in deep red soil against a south-easterly slope in the Helderberg basin, overlooking False Bay. The 2004 harvest was the first from this young vineyard.

The Shiraz was harvested separately and fermented in roto tanks, followed by maturation in second-fill 225-litre French oak barrels. The Viognier was harvested at 26 degrees Balling and pressed in whole bunches, followed by fermentation in second-fill 225-litre French oak barrels. During June 2004 it was blended with the Shiraz. The blend was then matured in wood for a further 6 months. On 1 December 2004, (6 300 x 750ml) were bottled for release as 2003 La Motte Shiraz • Viognier.

This new addition to the La Motte range is a sociable wine that suits a relaxed lifestyle. The Viognier lends an exceptional gentleness to the blend – the palate is elegant and friendly, with medium-full peach and cherry flavours. The tannins are refreshing. On the nose the wine impresses with intense blackberry and violet flavours. Having received a John Platter four-star rating even before release, this newcomer deserves to be explored!

Alcohol 14,03% vol
Residual sugar 2,24 g/l
Total acid 5,53 g/l
pH 3,62