The Old Wagonhouse

The Old Wagonhouse

Monday, March 15, 2010

WINEMAKING WEEKEND

During the weekend of the 19 to 21 February Withoek presented a winemaking weekend.  The organizer was Zelma of the local skills centre Kairos.  We hosted four guests which enjoyed this informative wine making weekend.

We started off the weekend with a wine tasting which showed the different styles of fortified wines.  Which was followed by a excellent braai. 

At 6 the next morning the grape picking started and it actually took a bit longer than expected.   The crushing followed.  After breakfast the additions were done as well as the punch through on the port style wine.  The guests had the afternoon off and this was enjoyed keeping out of the Calitzdorp sun which was a bit severe during February.

During the late afternoon the pressing of the port style wine skins was managed and all took part.  The fortifications was done tipical port style at 11.30 on Saturday evening. 

On the Sunday morning  the guests had to do the pressing of the Muskadel Jerepico skins after which the immediate fortification happened. 

The weekend was finished by a lovely breakfast at the Zelmas beautiful bale venue.  We allready have people being interested in next years wine weekend and we will let you know what, where and when.

Thanks to Zelma and Razel for all the trouble,  advertising,  cooking and support during this maiden adventure into the winemaking world.