Technical Analysis
A Southern Rhône blend of Shiraz, Mourvèdre and Grenache, the fruit for Guardian Peak's SMG comes from the Western Cape area of South Africa.
Tasting note
A charming blend offering cranberry, red liquorice, and spicy blackberry compote, plus notes of savoury spice and flint that add complexity. The generous fruit is framed by persistent tannins, with a zesty finish. 57% Shiraz, 32% Mourvedre & 11% Grenache.
Vinification details
Grapes were selected from various vineyards that are located in the Stellenbosch region, Breedekloof and Piekenierskloof. The grapes are fermented in open-top fermentation tanks with daily pump-overs and punch-downs. Each variety is individually vinified. A period of post-fermentation maceration is encouraged for a gentle extraction of tannin and to soften existing tannins. Half of the Grenache undergoes whole bunch fermentation to enhance the ripe red fruit flavours of the grape. The wine is transferred to 300L French oak barrels for 18 months.
Technical Analysis
A Southern Rhône blend of Shiraz, Mourvèdre and Grenache, the fruit for Guardian Peak's SMG comes from the Western Cape area of South Africa.
Tasting note
Bold black fruit and spice are followed by red cherry and raspberry. Notes of rhubarb combine with black pepper and cumin. Tangy acidity balances fine, supple tannins and juicy fruit. Cherries, cinnamon and smoky meat create layers in this refreshing, medium-bodied wine. A ratio of 60% Syrah, 30% Mourvèdre, 10% Grenache.
Vinification details
Grapes were selected from various vineyards that are located in the Stellenbosch region, Breedekloof and Piekenierskloof. The grapes are fermented in open-top fermentation tanks with daily pump-overs and punch-downs. Each variety is individually vinified. A period of post-fermentation maceration is encouraged for a gentle extraction of tannin and to soften existing tannins. Half of the Grenache undergoes whole bunch fermentation to enhance the ripe red fruit flavours of the grape. The wine is transferred to 300L French oak barrels for 18 months.
Technical Analysis
A Southern Rhône blend of Shiraz, Mourvèdre and Grenache, the fruit for Guardian Peak's SMG comes from the Western Cape area of South Africa.
Tasting note
Vibrant red currant and cranberries with by spicy notes of cardamom, bay leaf and liquorice. Tension between supple tannins and fresh acidity with expressive red fruit, blueberries, blackberries, and smoky cured meat. A blend of 76% Syrah, 15% Mourvèdre and 9% Grenache.
Vinification details
Grapes were selected from various vineyards that are located in the Stellenbosch region, Breedekloof and Piekenierskloof. The grapes are fermented in open-top fermentation tanks with daily pump-overs and punchdowns. Each variety is individually vinified. A period of post-fermentation maceration is encouraged for a gentle extraction of tannin and to soften existing tannins. Half of the Grenache undergoes whole bunch fermentation to enhance the ripe red fruit flavours of the grape. The wine is transferred to 300L French oak barrels for 18 months.
Technical Analysis
A Southern Rhône blend of Shiraz, Mourvèdre and Grenache, the fruit for Guardian Peak's SMG comes from the Western Cape area of South Africa.
Tasting note
Aromas of red cherries and hedgerow fruit combine with savoury spice and cured meat. Fresh berry fruit follows through on the palate, with layered notes of dried apricot, cardamom, and allspice, backed up by supple but firm tannins. Juicy and medium bodied, the wine finishes on a spicy dry note. A blend of 64% Syrah, 31% Mourvèdre and 5% Grenache.
Vinification details
The Syrah, Mourvèdre and Grenache were all hand-harvested, destemmed and crushed separately. The grapes were fermented in open-top fermentation tanks with pump-overs and punch-downs daily. Each variety was individually vinified. A period of post-fermentation maceration was encouraged for a gentle extraction of tannin and to soften existing tannins. Half of the Grenache underwent whole bunch fermentation to enhance the ripe red fruit flavours of the grape. The wine was transferred to 300L French oak barrels for 18 months (of which 30% new oak) for further barrel maturation.
Technical Analysis
A Southern Rhône blend of Shiraz, Mourvèdre and Grenache, the fruit for Guardian Peak's SMG comes from the Western Cape area of South Africa.
Tasting note
The 2016 SMG is a vibrant ruby red. A pronounced fragrance of bright cranberry and fresh red plum jumps out of the glass. Spicy and savoury aromas follow with pepper, allspice, and toasty notes weaving together elegantly. The palate is rich and juicy but not heavy, with ripe, textured tannins balanced by fresh acidity. Red fruit flavours combine with black cherry, liquorice, and savoury notes of cured meat to create good complexity. Medium bodied with a refined, dry finish. A blend of 66% Syrah, 24% Mourvèdre and 10% Grenache.
Vinification details
After hand harvesting the Syrah and Mourvèdre were destemmed while the Grenache was partially destemmed, leaving 50% of the grapes as whole bunches. The varieties were vinified separately, fermenting in open-top fermenters with regular punch downs followed by post-fermentation maceration to aid gentle extraction of phenolics. The wine was aged for 12 months in a combination of 300l and 500l French oak barrels, using 30% new oak.
