variety : Cabernet Sauvignon [ 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Petit Verdot, 9% Malbec, 8% Merlot, 3% Cabernet Franc ]
winemaker : Bruwer Raats
wine of origin : Western Cape
analysis : alc : 14.5 % vol rs : 4.8 g/l pH : 334 ta : 5.5 g/l
type : Red wooded
pack : Bottle size : 750ml closure : Screwcap
in the vineyard : Vineyards: Grapes were sourced from select vineyard sites in Paardeberg, Swartland and Stellenbosch. The Cabernet and Merlot vines are planted on the easterly foot hills of
the Paardeberg Mountain on deep weathered shale soils with an exceptional water holding capacity. The Malbec and Petit Verdot grapes come from unirrigated vineyards in the Swartland region, with deep, well drained, red loamy soils. The Cabernet Franc is grown in decomposed granite, clay and sandstone soils in Stellenbosch.
Vintage: A cold, wet winter leading up to the 2013 harvest ensured that soils were sufficiently moist, resulting in even budding and good growth. Weather during harvest was
moderate, with a small amount of rain benefitting the dryland vineyards, particularly the late-ripening Cabernet and Petit Verdot. Small berries translated into wines packed with intense, concentrated fruit flavors.
in the cellar :
The grapes were de-stemmed, crushed and left to cold soak for 2-3 days. The individual components were then fermented naturally on the skins in stainless steel tanks until dry, with gentle pumpovers performed four times daily. The wine was pressed and returned to tank for malolactic fermentation and aging. A small portion of the blend (4%) came from the 2011 vintage and spent 18 months in new, 2nd and 3rd fill French oak barrels. This small component adds significant character and complexity to the final wine.
Certifications: Integrated Production of Wines (IPW) Certified.