Description
Wine of Origin: Stellenbosch
In the Vineyard: The grapes were picked from Block 5, where the soil originates from 350-million-year-old granite decomposition. The block is situated next to a Eucalyptus forest, which imparts a herbaceous influence to the flavour profile, while the close ocean proximity and cool sea breezes allow the fruit to ripen for longer, increasing the concentration and complexity of aromas.
The vineyard blocks are situated 190m above sea level, 7km from the ocean. The soil type is Tukulu.
In the Cellar: The grapes are stored overnight in the cold room, then hand sorted and destemmed. The whole berries were then cold soaked for 4 days before fermentation began, which lasted 15 days between 18-25˚C with a carefully planned pump over schedule ensuring soft tannins.
Malolactic fermentation was completed in stainless steel tanks, before a 16-month barrel maturation period in 25% new French oak, 5% new American oak and the remaining 70% matured in older barrels.
Analysis: Alc: 14% | pH: 3.53 | TA: 5.55 g/l | RS: 3.6 g/l
Viticulture:
| Climate | Coastal |
| Aspect | South facing slopes |
| Soil type | Tukulu and Oakleaf |
| Clones | MO343,348 |
| Rootstock | Richter 110, Ruggeri 140, 101-14 |
| Planting date | 2000 – 2001 |
| HA planted | 4.55ha |
| Average tonnage | 7.5 tons/ha |
| Irrigation | Drip irrigation |
| Trellis system | Extended Perold, 7 strand |
| Vines per Ha | 2583 |
