Aenigma 2007

Elgin is one of the Cape’s coolest wine growing areas with favourable climatic, soil and topographic conditions.

The Vineyards

These vineyards are positioned on east-facing slopes of which the soil is mainly Bokkeveld Shale. The vines are trellised and have access to supplementary irrigation.

Grape varieties

This is a red blend of 39% Merlot, 37% Cabernet Sauvignon and 24% Cabernet franc.

Winemaking

Harvest commenced as per variety. Merlot picked on 27 February, the Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc were finished on 4 April. Grapes were harvested between  23.0°B and 25.0°B with a total acid of 7.8 g/l and a pH of 3.2.

Fermentation was initiated in stainless steel tanks. The crushed grapes underwent a series of pump overs and punching after which the wine was racked off to tank and barrel to complete alcoholic fermentation. Malolactic fermentation took place in barrels.  This wine spent 18 months in French oak barrels of which 15% was new. The balance in 2nd and 3rd fill barrels.

Bottled in January 2009.

Alcohol: 13.5%
Residual Sugar: 2.0 g/l  
Total Acid: 5.5 g/l
pH: 3.6

Tasting notes

Attractive bright colour with good depth and intensity. Spicy aromas with a hint of earthy complexity. Well integrated oak with an elegant palate. The palate is nicely textured with a complexity that holds interest.