Technical Analysis
A unique blend in its class with the addition of Italian and Spanish varietals - predominantly Shiraz supported by Mourvèdre, Tempranillo, Sangiovese and Merlot.
Tasting note
A unique blend in its class, with the use of Italian and Spanish varietals. Predominantly Shiraz lead, the wine shows off forward fruit aromatics of violet, cherries and liquorice accompanied by notes of a classical spicy cigar box. The palate expresses an abundant dark red fruit and velvety texture with a classic tannin structure, finishing with balanced natural acidity. Shiraz (23%), Mourvedre (21%), Cabernet Franc (12%), Cabernet Sauvignon (11%), Petit Verdot (8%), Grenache (8%), Malbec (6%), Sangiovese (6%), Tempranillo (5%)
Vintage conditions
Good winter rains but still below the normal average. Odd warm days during winter but some snowfall during late winter/early spring, along with some rain helped dam levels rise. These conditions also prepared for a good, even budding to start the growing season. During ripening the odd heat wave was experienced but overall lovely warm days and cooler nights allowed for perfect ripening and earlier picking dates. This resulting in lovely, fresh, flavoured rich wines.
Vinification details
Aged in old French Oak Barrels
Tasting video
With winemaker Mark Le Roux. (Apologies for the sound quality)
Technical Analysis
A unique blend in its class with the addition of Italian and Spanish varietals - predominantly Shiraz supported by Mourvèdre, Tempranillo, Sangiovese and Merlot.
Tasting note
A blend of Shiraz (13%), Mourvedre (9%), Merlot (2%), Sangiovese (9%), Cabernet Franc (20%), Cabernet Sauvignon (18%), Tempranillo, (2%), Grenache (13%), Petit Verdot (6%), Malbec (5%), Barbera (3%). The wine shows off forward fruit aromatics of violet, cherries and liquorice accompanied by notes of a classical spicy cigar box. The palate follows the reputation of an abundant dark red fruit and a classic tannin structure finishing with balanced natural acidity.
Vintage conditions
Drought was still playing a huge part in the vintage, a dry and warm winter hindering the dormancy period which was vital for even growth and survival. Across the board they experienced an average of 30% drop in yield. Berries at harvest time were tiny and highly concentrated in flavour, and due to relatively cool and dry summer weather, the wines also ended up with low alcohols and softer acidities.
Vinification details
Aged in old French oak barrels and Vats
Technical Analysis
A unique blend in its class with the addition of Italian and Spanish varietals - predominantly Shiraz supported by Mourvèdre, Tempranillo, Sangiovese and Merlot.
Tasting note
The wine shows off forward fruit aromatics of violet, cherries and liquorice accompanied by notes of a classical spicy cigar box. The palate follows through with an abundant dark red fruit and classic tannin structure, finishing with balanced natural acidity.
Vintage information
Another year of severe drought conditions with low winter rainfall and a few warm days during winter. Once the season got going, moderate to cool and windless conditions were experienced. This was perfect for flowering leading to high crop potentials. From November onwards, warm burg wind conditions were experienced throughout, creating stressful ripening conditions. Early picking, resulted in lower alcohol percentages in the wines with good freshness.
Vinification details
Aged in old 225L and 500L French oak barrels.
Technical Analysis
A unique blend in its class with the addition of Italian and Spanish varietals - predominantly Shiraz supported by Mourvèdre, Tempranillo, Sangiovese and Merlot.
Tasting note
Shiraz led, the wine shows off forward fruit aromatics of violet, cherries and licorice accompanied by notes of classical cigar box spice. The palate follows the reputation of abundant dark red fruit and a classic tannin structure, finishing with balanced natural acidity.
Vintage conditions
2017 has been noted as one of the great vintage years in Stellenbosch. Drought conditions prevailed, but temperatures remained moderate-to-cool throughout the season, which resulted in optimal maturation of fruit, but no signs of warmth in the wines. The wines are extremely classical in style, showing tension in the firm and concentrated tannin structures. The cooler conditions also brought about great freshness and purity within the wines.
Vinification details
Aged in old 225L and 500L French oak barrels.