in the vineyard : Cool summer and growing season overruled the negative aspects of a third dry summer and low water reserves. Even the hottest month February was very cool, only at the end we had four wet days. The cool weather ensured a long ripening period for most red varieties, which resulted in full bodied reds with loads of fruit flavours.
Soil: Hutton, Clovelly
Trellising: Cab/Merlot - on 4 wire Perold System. Pinotage - Bush vine
Age: Average 25 Years
Yield: ±5 Ton/ha for the Pinotage and 7 Ton/ha for the Cabernet and Merlot
This blend represents not only the synergy of three red grape varieties, but also the different slopes, soils and microclimates where they are grown. Merlot, Pinotage and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes were sourced from selected vineyards in the Simonsberg, Koelenhof and Bottelary hills areas of the Stellenbosch region to create a wine which combines the best elements of classic European and new world wine styles.
in the cellar : Fermentation occurred for 4 days in open-air lagers. The skins were pressed through every two hours. At approx. 6° C the must and skins were separated and the press juice added to the must. After malolatic fermentation the wine was aged for a further 12 months in 225 litre French Oak barrels.