Technical Analysis
Kadette means “young officer'' or ''younger brother'' – this wine is made from younger vineyards and is the younger version of the wines in our Estate Range. First released in 2019, Cabernet Sauvignon is the youngest brother.
Tasting note
Bright ruby red in colour, with notes of blackcurrant, black cherry, sweet oak spice and red florals. The integrated and plush tannins support the sultry fruit profile.
Vintage conditions
Warmer periods during the latter part of the winter resulted in some un-even budding, flowering and fruit set. The moisture levels in the soils were satisfactory throughout the growing and ripening phase, and very little moisture stress was noticeable on the vines. The late start to the 2021 harvest was one of the distinguishing hallmarks of this vintage. The cooler growing conditions of the 2021 vintage produced elegant wines with softer tannin structures that will make them accessible and drinkable from an earlier age.
Vinification details
Fermentation took place in open top concrete fermenters at 280C. The floating skins were punched down mechanically, every 2 hours during fermentation. The juice was drawn off the skins after 5 – 6 days. After malolactic fermentation the wine was matured for 12 months in older 225L French oak barrels.
AWARDS
Tim Atkin MW: 90 pts
Technical Analysis
Kadette means “young officer'' or ''younger brother'' – this wine is made from younger vineyards and is the younger version of the wines in our Estate Range. First released in 2019, Cabernet Sauvignon is the youngest brother.
Tasting note
The nose is filled with fresh juicy blackcurrant, black plums and black cherries. Underlying hints of bouquet garni and subtle oak spice add further complexity. The tannins are finely textured, which adds a sturdy framework to support the plush fruit core. Concentrated flavours of blackberries and black fruit, combined with a juicy savoury plush tomato note, creates a classic Stellenbosch Cabernet with a lengthy, dry finish
Vintage conditions
The preceding winter had sufficient rain and cold units. Throughout the harvesting period the weather remained favourable, with relatively warm days, no significant heatwaves and cool night temperatures.
Vinification details
Fermentation took place in open top concrete fermenters at 280C. The floating skins were punched down mechanically, every 2 hours during fermentation. The juice was drawn off the skins after 5 – 6 days. After malolactic fermentation the wine was matured for 12 months in older 225L French oak barrels.
Technical Analysis
Kadette means “young officer'' or ''younger brother'' – this wine is made from younger vineyards and is the younger version of the wines in our Estate Range. First released in 2019, Cabernet Sauvignon is the youngest brother.
Tasting note
Opulent aromas of blueberries, plums and red currants. Underlying hints of dried herbs and subtle oak spice add further complexity. The tannins are finely textured, and add a sturdy framework to support the plush fruit core. Concentrated flavours of blue- and blackberries, combined with the delicate acidity, creates a classic Stellenbosch Cabernet with a lengthy, dry finish.
Vintage conditions
Winter rainfall was higher than the previous two winters. Irregular temperatures from winter until the flowering period, together with cool growing conditions, led to great variations in the vineyards. The cool weather and regular rain showers led to less water stress for the vines during ripening. Harvest time was characterised by regular rain showers
Vinification details
Fermentation took place in open top concrete fermenters at 28°C. The floating skins were punched down mechanically, every 2 hours during fermentation. The juice was drawn off the skins after 5 – 6 days. After malolactic fermentation the wine was matured for 12 months in older 225L French oak barrels.
