The Vintage
The 2019 vintage will be remembered as one that followed the most severe drought in South Africa during 2018. In the second half of 2018, supporting rainfall ensured good soil moisture with cool and
moderate ripening and harvesting conditions for 60% of the intake of the 2019 vintage. The 2019 crop was medium sized, resulting in some excellent wines.

Viticulture
The Merlot vineyards are planted on Hutton Oak Leaf soils at 200 metres above sea level on the slopes of the Tygerberg 7 kilometres from, and in sight of, the Atlantic Ocean. The age of the vines ranges from 14 to 17 years and an estimated 2,300 vines yield a crop of 7 to 8 tons per hectare per vintage.

Vinification
Handpicked fruit was destalked, crushed and fermented in stainless steel tanks. The ‘aerated pump-over’ method was used to gently pump the fermenting juice over the skin cap four times a day for one-hour
periods at a time, ensuring soft tannins. After fermentation the wine was pressed, racked and matured in 1/3 new French Oak, 1/3 in second fill French Oak and 1/3 in third fill French Oak for 13 months.

Tasting Notes

Beautiful deep ruby color with a purple rim. The nose presents a bouquet of blackberries, black cherries and mocha which follows through to a velvety-smooth palate with finely integrated tannins. Well rounded with a lingering cedarwood finish.

Food Complements
An exceptional pairing for caramelized roasted vegetables, or pastas with meaty sauces such as a simple spaghetti Bolognaise.

RS: 2.6 g/l
pH: 3.47
TA: 5.8 g/l
Alc: 14.79%

Certified Sustainable

A-16