Cabernet Sauvignon 2009

These limited release wines demonstrate the distinctiveness of specific vineyard sites and represent our finest quality. The Jonkershoek Valley and more specifically the south facing slopes are of the coolest sites in Stellenbosch.

Vintage conditions

Cold and wet winter conditions and a relatively warm and dry summer resulted in good and even budding. Harvest commenced on 20 March. Grapes were harvested 23.8°B with a total acid of 7.6 g/l and a pH of 3.41.

The vineyards

Well established trellised vineyards planted on a northwest facing slope on well-drained decomposed granite soils. These vineyards have access to supplementary irrigation.

Grape variety

100% Cabernet Sauvignon.

Winemaking

Fermentation is initiated in stainless steel tanks. The crushed grapes underwent a series of pump overs until dry. Further maceration is allowed before drawing off and light pressing. Malolactic fermentation completed in new French oak barrels. This wine spent 26 months in 100% new French oak barrels.

Bottled in September 2011.

Alcohol: 14.0%
Residual Sugar: 1.5 g/l
Total Acid: 5.8 g/l
pH: 3.63

Tasting notes

Medium red, purple in colour with high-toned blackcurrant, violet and cedar aromas and touches of mint, so typical of a Jonkershoek wine.  The rich, ripe opulent but youthful palate has plummy fruit, a background of new oak and fine tannins. This is a multi-faceted wine that needs time to mature.