Jordan Chameleon Red 1998

The Merlot portion adds a ripe cherry character to the minty berry flavours of the Cabernet Sauvignon. The Cabernet Franc adds a spiciness to the blend which is balanced by the rich toastiness of French oak.


variety : Cabernet Sauvignon [ 61% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot, 19% Cabernet Franc ]
winemaker : Gary & Kathy Jordan
wine of origin : Stellenbosch
analysis : alc : 13.6 % vol  rs : 2.5 g/l  pH : 3.7  ta : 5.6 g/l  
pack : Bottle  

ageing : Drinking well now but will benefit from 4 - 5 years maturation.

in the vineyard : The Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot grapes were selected from north and east-facing vineyards situated on decomposed granite and loamy soils. The Cabernet Franc grapes were selected from west-facing vineyards on deep clay-loam soils.

about the harvest: The Cabernet Sauvignon was harvested from 10 year old vineyards at 23.0 - 24.8°B between 14 and 25 March 1998, and the Merlot was harvested at 24°B between 18 and 25 February 1998. The Cabernet Franc was harvested on 24 March 1998 at 24.5°B.

in the cellar : Fermented in overhead retort-shaped, stainless steel fermentors. Pump-overs done twice daily during fermentation. The Cabernet Sauvignon received extended maceration on the skins after fermentation. The use of gravity and gentle pressing ensures full-flavoured wines with soft, balanced tannins.
The Merlot underwent malolactic fermentation in the barrel. The Cabernet Franc spent 7 - 8 months in 225 litre French oak barrels, the Merlot 12 - 18 months and the Cabernet Sauvignon 19 months.

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Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Sauvignon
Merlot
Cabernet Sauvignon