in the vineyard : Altitude: 195m above sea level (Shiraz), 245m (Cabernet)
Age of vines: Shiraz - 13 years, Cabernet - 10 years
Rootstock: 101-14 Mgt Clones: SH09, CS359
Slopes: South-Western slopes
Row direction: Shiraz - North-South, Cabernet - NE-SW
Soil type: The Shiraz is planted on weathered granite and Tukulu formations while the Cabernet is in more rocky, Pinedene soil formations.
about the harvest: The maiden vintage Red Blend is a true reflection of one of the best vintages the South African wine industry have seen over the last decade. 2009 produced red wines with outstanding ageing potential. The Cabernet Sauvignon and the Shiraz were picked from separate single vineyards.
in the cellar : The wine was made in the traditional way of punching down of the skins.
Matured for 24 months in 100% new French oak barrels. Only the finest barrels were selected, blended after a year and then put back into oak for another 12 months.