TASTING NOTES
Colour: A youthful red.
Bouquet: Delicate aromas of blackcurrant and plums, with a touch of coffee and liquorice.
Palate: Soft, elegant and supple. The tannins have unravelled to provide a good textured backdrop, beautifully balanced, resulting in a savoury spice finish.
IN THE VINEYARD
The grapes were sourced from bush vines and trellised vineyards in Paarl, Darling and Stellenbosch. Planted between 1990 and 1998 the vines grow on south-westerly slopes situated at between 50 m and 150 m above sea level, in soils originating from decomposed granite. The vines, grafted onto nematode resistant rootstock Richter 99, and R110, are grown under dryland conditions and receive supplementary irrigation by means of an overhead sprinkler system.
THE HARVEST
The grapes were harvested by hand and machine at between 23° and 25° Balling during February and March.
IN THE CELLAR
The grapes were fermented on the skins at between 25° and 28°C for 10 to 14 days in stainless steel tanks. Upon completion of malolactic fermentation the wine was matured in a combination of new, second and third-fill barrels for a period of 8 to 12 months.
AGEING POTENTIAL
Ready to drink now, but with further cellaring the wine will gain in complexity and character for the next 10 to 15 years.
BLEND INFORMATION
63% Cabernet Sauvignon, 37% Merlot
FOOD SUGGESTIONS
Enjoy on its own or serve with lamb, rare roast beef (hot or cold), calves ’liver or pasta dishes with a meaty basil sauce.
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