1685 Shiraz Cabernet Sauvignon

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Blend Details

71% Shiraz, mostly from cooler coastal vineyards within Faure in Stellenbosch as well as the Simonsberg, Paarl and Agter Paarl areas. 29% Cabernet Sauvignon from vineyards in Faure as well as Agter Paarl.

Vineyard Management

Spur pruning began in mid- July, followed by shoot thinning in mid-October, leaving an average of two to three shoots per spur. This exercise was repeated in early December when excess shoots were removed. Careful tipping of the shoots commenced at the end of January to ensure concentration of nutrients in the berries. Small, uneven bunches were removed two weeks prior to harvesting.

Harvest

In 2009 the vines ripened later than in normal years. This extra hangtime in the vineyards allowed for fuller and riper fruit expressions in the grapes. Grapes were harvested from the middle of March up to the second week in April.

Vinification

Fermenting took place between 28°C-30°C taking 7-12 days to complete. A combination of closed pumpovers, pumpovers with air and cap break-up with compressed air was carried out to extract as much colour and ‘friendly tannin’ as possible through a relative soft approach. Most tanks were pressed within 2-3 days of finishing the fermentation.  75% of the wine was aged in 1^st to 4^th fill 300 litre barrels for 12-14 months, the rest remained unoaked to add fresh fruit flavours to the final blend.

Wine Maker's Tasting Notes

Dense yet still vibrant red in colour with attractive layers of ripe red currants and concentrated berry fruits touches of liquorice and white spice on the nose. A juicy concentrated berry entry continues smoothly through the midpalate with further lingering flavours of cassis, mocha and oak spice supported by well integrated ripe Cabernet Sauvignon tannins that lend great finesse and structure. The wine is ready to be consumed with potential for another 5-8 years in a bottle.

Alcohol14.4%Vol pH3.6 Residual Sugar3.8g/l Total Acid5.85g/l RegionCoastal