The Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz and Petit Verdot vineyards grow on the warm north-facing slopes of the Helderberg region within the Stellenbosch appellation. The Hutton Clovelly soils contain a high gravel content which offers rich middle palate weight giving this wine exceptional depth and fruit purity. With an altitude of approximately 250 metres above sea level together with the cooling influence of the Atlantic Ocean just 15 kilometres away, this extends the ripening period by up to 3 weeks resulting in lovely phenolic ripeness.
The various Cabernet Sauvignon clones grown at the property were hand-picked, and great care was taken to ensure each block was processed separately. The bunches were sorted and destemmed before secondary sorting via an optical sorter took place. The whole berries were fermented in open top tanks. Premium selection grapes from selected parcels within the various clonal blocks were fermented in smaller open fermenters. Intermittent pump-overs and punch downs were done to ensure that the right flavours, aromas and tannins could be extracted from the berries. All ferments were meticulously monitored to ensure an optimal balance between flavour and tannins. After primary fermentation some tanks underwent extended maceration. Each clonal batch of Cabernet was micro-vinified in oak barrels before blending and bottling took place.
Rubied with a violet core. Cedar casks, visions of bookshops and leather-bound novels, toast and spice all melt into expressive cassis vibrancy. Scents of crushed wild herbs, blackberries and plums evolve next. On the palate pinpoint purity of blackcurrant fruit, vividly sketched against fruit-coated, rolling tannins. The concentration of the 2019 vintage is on show here, bright bursts of plummy fruit refresh and engage, tailing towards a classically dry finish. The 2019 is both fruit expressive and exquisitely tailored.
Alc. 13.85% by Vol. – R.S. 3.2 g/l – T.A. 5.9 g/l – pH 3.73
Aged for 17 months in 300 litre French Oak barrels (20% new)
Wine of Origin: Stellenbosch
