Sandemand apitiv is created using only the finest hand picked grapes from the Douro Valley. The grapes undergo stalk removal & crushing before fermentation under a controlled temperature, with skin maceration so as to extract the best components. The addition of wine alcohol is added but only at the ideal moment, this is to set the balance between the wines body & bouquet. The maturation phase occurs after the harvest when the wines will still remain in Douro valley until the following spring. However once spring hits, the wine is transferred to Sandeman's centuries old lodges for ageing in oak wood casks. While the wines are ageing they are tested & tasted by the oenology team who make any necessary corrections to the final blend. The wines used for the final blend are usually aged between 2-5 years which makes it possible to obtain a fresh & young wine with & average age of 3 years. The final blend is filtered & cold stabilised prior to bottling. On eye it is a pale, straw, yellow colour with a floral nutty aroma. On the palate you detect fresh flavours of sharp fruits all accompanied by a nice hint of natural sweetness. Sandeman apitiv should be served chilled or as a long drink with a splash of tonic water, lemon & ice. It is also delicious with creamy sea food, cheese quiche's or even ice cream with tropical fruits.