2018 Jordan Sophia

History of the Jordan Winery in Stellenbosch

Jordan Wine Estate is a renowned family-owned winery located in Stellenbosch Kloof, South Africa. Founded in the 1980s by Ted and Sheelagh Jordan, the estate has built a strong reputation for quality wines with depth and balance. Their son Gary and his wife Kathy continue the tradition with a focus on terroir-driven winemaking. Jordan pairs classic grape varieties with specific parcels within the varied landscape, resulting in expressive, elegant wines. The wine Sophia is named after the mythical mother of Faith, Hope and Charity — symbolically represented by an owl, sun, moon and earth.

Location, climate and soil in Stellenbosch Kloof

Jordan’s vineyards are situated in a pronounced ravine-shaped landscape with an ideal compass orientation. The south and east-facing slopes provide a cooling effect, unique in Stellenbosch, particularly suitable for aromatic grape varieties. The proximity of False Bay (14 km) and the Benguela Current from the west coast (24 km) creates a cooling maritime climate. During the ripening season, temperatures are on average 3°C lower than inland Stellenbosch, contributing to slow ripening and refined aromas. The soil consists of weathered granite of the Hutton and Glenrosa varieties, which contributes to minerality and structure.

Jordan's style and focus on quality

The Jordan winery is known for its elegant, complex wines with freshness, balance and longevity. The style is classic with a modern South African touch. Sophia is the flagship of the estate's Bordeaux blends, produced from the best barrels from selected vineyards on the hills overlooking False Bay and Table Mountain.

Grapes, vinification and maturation of Jordan Sophia 2018

The 2018 Jordan Sophia is composed of 72% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot, 4% Petit Verdot and 4% Cabernet Franc. The grapes come from 32-year-old vines on hillside vineyards. This blend contains only the best “Cobblers Hill” barriques and a selection of reserve Cabernet Sauvignon.

Fermentation took place at 28°C with three daily pump-overs for optimum extraction. After pressing, the wine was transferred to 225-litre French oak barriques, where it completed malolactic fermentation and was then aged for 18 months. This maturation allowed for the integration of ripe tannins and a deep, complex structure.

Tasting notes: colour, aroma and flavour

The wine shows a deep ruby red colour with a concentrated core. On the nose, layers of black cherry, cassis, dark chocolate and ripe blackberries develop, interwoven with vanilla and subtle spices from the ageing in French oak. On the palate, the structure is firm and layered, with ripe tannins and a silky texture. The finish is long and lush, with a fine balance between fruit, acidity and oak complexity.

Analysis and shelf life

• Alcohol: 14%

• Total acidity: 5.9 g/l

• pH: 3.72

• Residual sugar: 2.6 g/l

The structure and balance make this a wine with excellent ageing potential. With proper cellaring the wine will continue to develop for at least another 10 to 15 years, with increasing elegance and complexity.

International recognition and awards

The 2018 Jordan Sophia was awarded 4.5 stars in the Platter's Wine Guide and received a score of 95 points from wine critic Tim Atkin. These high ratings confirm the exceptional level of this wine in both a domestic and international context.

Order wines from 2018 Jordan Sophia online?

The wine is in our conditioned Wine Warehouse and if you come to pick up the wine you will often also receive a nice discount. You will see your discount immediately when you choose 'Pick up' on the checkout page. We are located in Dordrecht almost next to the A16 with plenty of parking. Click here for our address.
Any fact sheets or other information and/or photos can be found in the tab: Attachment.
The reviews from international wine journalists such as Parker, Suckling and Vinous can be read in full on the website via the links next to the image
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Wine and food pairings with Jordan Sophia 2018

1. Roasted leg of lamb with thyme and garlic
The deep spiciness of the meat is enhanced by the cassis and herbal aromas of the wine.

2. Slow-cooked beef cheek with red wine sauce
The soft, gelatinous flesh harmonises beautifully with the ripe tannins and dark fruit notes.

3. Tagliatelle with mushrooms, cream and truffle
The earthy notes of mushrooms and truffle perfectly complement the structure and use of wood in the wine.

4. Venison fillet with cranberry compote
The fruity component of the compote complements the cherry and blackberry aromas, while the game is firm enough for the powerful body.

5. Grilled eggplant with Parmesan and tomato sauce
The roasted vegetable flavors and umami of the cheese combine elegantly with the fresh acidity and ripe fruit of the wine.

6. Confit duck with lentils and balsamic vinegar
The rich character of duck and the sweet touch of balsamic vinegar are beautifully balanced by the wine structure and integrated wood tones.