Technical Specifications
Alcohol 14.0%
Residual Sugar 1.6 g/L
pH 3.6
Total Acidity 4.6 g/L
Calories (estimated) 115 kcal / glass
150ml glass115 kcal
750ml bottle575 kcal
Grape Varieties Merlot, Malbec, Cabernet Franc
Merlot89%
Malbec8%
Cabernet Franc3%
Drinking Window 2024-2035
Region Stellenbosch
Soil High road: heavier clay and rocky soils; homestead: lighter loamy soil
Estate Grown Yes
Vine Age Homestead Merlot planted 2007; High Road Merlot planted 2009; Pondokrug Cabernet Franc planted 2007; Homestead Malbec planted 2007
Fermentation Vessels Open Top Fermenter
Oak Aging 20 months
Oak Types Seasoned French oak
Bottling Date 25 Nov 2022
Sulfites 71.0 ppm
Unfined Yes
Production Volume 10,779 bottles
Bottles10,779
Magnums100
Production Details Fruit came from the High Road and Homestead Merlot vineyards at 330 m and 260 m altitude respectively, with small blending components from Pondokrug Cabernet Franc and Homestead Malbec. High Road contributed only 15% in 2021 because of very low yields. Small batches were hand harvested and vinified separately with minimal intervention in open-top fermenters using traditional methods.
Tasting Notes
Nose: spicy red fruit, cinnamon, dried herbs, dust, mixed berries
Palate: classical, elegant, fruitful, dark plums, cherries, vanilla, fine tannins, fresh acidity
Critics Ratings Neal Martin (Vinous): 87
Neal Martin (Vinous)87
Platter's Guide4.5 stars
Tim Atkin MW93
Producer Information
Website
Address
Upper Blaauwklippen Road, Stellenbosch, South Africa
Phone
+27 (0)21 880 0397
Email
Owner
Mark Wraith
Cellarmaster
Alex Starey