in the cellar : For a couple of years we experimented with the creation of a blend that captures the essence of the Cape. We were always convinced that Pinotage, being uniquely South African, should be involved. However, the dilemma was the choice of an ideal blending partner. Our aim was to allow the sunlight to show. In keeping with the modern trend we intended to produce a rich wine with deep colour and loads of ripe fruit and soft tannins. Merlot is ideally suited to achieving this result in South Africa and after experimentation we discovered it blended very well with Pinotage. However, we also realised that Pinotage could easily dominate the blend and we were obliged for the sake of balance and harmony to keep the percentage down to 20 % in 1999.
The 1999 vintage was warm which guaranteed optimum ripeness and therefore ideal for this Cape Blend style. After primary fermentation in rototanks the wine was pressed and racked to stainless steel tanks for malolactic
fermentation. Therafter it was barrel matured in 225 LI French oak barrels for 12 months.