1685 Merlot

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Viticulturist’s Details

88% Merlot and 12% Malbec varieties.The Merlot majority is from 5 different vineyard sites in the Banhoek and Bottelary areas of Stellenbosch, whilst the Malbec grapes originate from the Faure area. The vineyards range in age between 6-22 years old, on a variety of soils best suited to these varieties with average yields of 9 tons per hectare.

Vineyard Management

Vigilant viticultural practices were employed throughout the growth season to prevent any green flavours including rigorous shoot and bunch thinning from October through to December as well as green harvesting prior to ripening.

Harvest

2009 was a year of slow ripening and small berries that delivered the perfect recipe for great fruit concentration and ripeness. Soils with good water retention up until late in the season and ensured balanced and complete ripeness. Grapes were harvested by hand between 24°B and 25°B enabling quality control and selection from the vineyard and transported in small lug boxes to preserve the integrity of the fruit as far as possible.

Vinification

Fermentation in stainless steel lasted between 9-12 days. A combination of closed pumpovers and rack and return pumpovers for colour extraction was initiated in the first phase of fermentation followed by closed pumpovers during the latter parts. The Merlot component went through malolactic fermentation in barrel and stayed in barrel for between 9-14 months.

Wine Maker's Tasting Notes

Very attractive vibrant ruby depth of colour with typical dominant red cherry and fleshy plum fruit perfectly completed by slick underlying spicy oak and savoury richness all supported by supple ripe tannins for a well balanced succulently smooth finish. A wine to enjoy now or in the next 5 years.

Alcohol14.3%Vol pH3.5 Residual Sugar3.9g/l Total Acid6.02g/l RegionCoastal