2011 was a very dry year resulting in small berries therefore a small crop across all varietals. The resultant intensity from the small berry size has continued through into the wine. Both the Cabernet Sauvignon and Mourvédre were fermented in small batches in open bins with regular hand punching down. The smaller batches were pressed directly into barrel and allowed to mature with some fermentation lees. We also did malolactic fermentation in barrel which gave us fuller mouth feel and structure.
After malolactic fermentation the wine was racked and returned to barrel for a further 24 months.
During the blending process great care was taken to create balance, richness and multi layers of flavour. For the first time the blend is Cabernet Sauvignon driven which adds a Bordeaux feel to the blend. The final blend comprised of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Shiraz and 9% Mourvédre.
Grapes were sourced from two vineyard sites:
Bot River, Luddite old block clone 9C Shiraz harvested on 24th February 2011
Bot River, Ou Meul Cabernet Sauvignon harvested on 23rd March 2011
Bot River, Luddite young block Mourvédre harvested on 8th March 2011
Bot River, Luddite young block Cabernet Sauvignon harvested on 8th March 2011
Average analysis of fruit at harvest
26.6° Balling, TA – 6.1 g/l, pH – 3.55
Tasting Notes
Appearance: Dark garnet in appearance with dark red edges.
Nose: Spice jumps out the glass. Plum, dark cherry and savoury wood.
Palate: Rich and decadent. Dark fruit, plums and black cherries. Great balance to mid palate with hints of saltiness and a juicy, long, well balanced dry finish.
Analysis of the wine
Alcohol: 15%
pH: 3.56
TA: 5.7 g/l
RS: 3.6 g/l