Grapes for the wine originate from Helderberg, Stellenbosch.

Budding was visibly late, ascribed to a later winter and relatively cool climate until even the end of November. Summer remained cool, without heatwaves. As a result of these conditions, harvesting started between 10 and 14 days later than usual and only for the second time in 20 years did La Motte start harvesting as late as February.

All vineyards are trellised and established in the first prominent hills, about 7 km from the False Bay coastline. Soil is a combination of weathered granite and shale with some spots of coffee stone gravel. The soil is well-drained while maintaining good water holding capacity. Sustainable farming practices include vineyard management to ensure proper aeration and sufficient light. Destalking and sorting are done in the vineyard.

Grapes are harvested at optimal ripeness, destalked and then fermented in stainless steel tanks with pump-overs twice a day. Pressing and barrelling happened three weeks later. The wine was matured for 16 months in 300-litre French oak barrels - 100% second fill. The various Cabernet Sauvignon batches were blended and filtered before being bottled in October 2022. 4000 cases (6 x 750ml) of the 2021 La Motte Cabernet Sauvignon were released.

Stellenbosch's Helderberg area is renowned for producing some of the best Cabernet Sauvignons in South Africa. La Motte's 2021 vintage is an intricate wine combining intense berry and plum fruit with clove spice and mint herbs. Expect typical Cabernet Sauvignon characteristics of prominent cigar box and oak-derived toffee in the background. Ample tannins and a full palate with an opulent consistency and persistent finish, indicate exceptional maturation potential.

Alcohol 14.14% vol
Residual sugar 2.4 g/L
Total acid 5.9 g/L
pH 5.58