Description
VINTAGE
The vines emerged from a cold, wet Winter and enjoyed even budding in the Spring of 2012. Strong winds in early Summer affected the yields and canopies of some varieties but cool and consistent weather in early 2013 resulted in later than usual ripening. The cool growing season meant the grapes reaching their flavour ripeness with low sugars resulting in medium-bodied, elegant wines being produced.
VINEYARDS
Wine of Origin Helderberg, Stellenbosch
Varietal Blended 100% Merlot
Soil Types Decomposed Granite, Hutton and Tukulu
Trellising/Pruning System VSP (Vertical Shoot Positioned), 2 Node Spur Pruned
Irrigation Type Minimal Drip Irrigation
Picking Method & Date Hand Picked, March 2013
WINEMAKING
Extraction Method Crushed and De-stemmed Fruit, Pumped Over During Ferment
Fermentation Vessel Stainless Steel
Yeast Cultured Active Dry Wine Yeast
Extended Maceration 7 days
Oak Aging 16 Months
Age and Type of Oak 20% new and 80% 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th fill French 225L barrels
Final Analysis Alc v/v: 14.35% (14% on label) TA 5.5g/L pH 3.56 RS 2.2g/L
Bottling Date August 2014
WINE
Tasting Note
Rich aromas of blackberries, cassis, eucalyptus and dark chocolate follow through to a smooth palate that is both balanced and well-rounded with fine grained tannins. This wine can be enjoyed now or will benefit from maturation in ideal cellar conditions.
Aging Potential 8 – 10+ years from vintage under ideal cellaring conditions.
