Chameleon
1995 Jordan Chameleon Cabernet Sauvignon/Merlot
Description
Spectacular panoramic views of Stellenbosch and Cape Town, cool hillside vineyards planted to classic varieties, and a modern family-run winery have combined to produce distinctive wines displaying the ripe concentrated fruity accessibility of the New World, with the complex elegance of classic wine
Variety
60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Merlot.
Vineyards
The Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot grapes were hand-harvested from north and east-facing vineyards situated on decomposed granite and loamy soils.
Harvest Date
The Cabernet Sauvignon was harvested from 8 year old vineyards at 22.6° - 23.5°B between 27th February and 3rd March 1995 and the Merlot was harvested at 21.8°B – 22.3°B on 17 February 1995.
Winemaking
Fermented in overhead retort-shaped, stainless steel fermentors. Pump-overs were done three times daily during fermentation. The Cabernet Sauvignon received extended maceration on the skins after fermentation. The use of gravity and gentle pressing ensure full-flavoured wines with soft, balanced tannins. Malo-lactic fermentation was completed in the tank. The Cabernet Sauvignon portion spent 10 months in 225 litre French oak barrels (mostly Nevers and Alliers). Half of the Merlot spent 6 months in French oak with the other half remaining unwooded to retain the plumy fruit flavours of the varietal.
Tasting Notes
The Merlot portion adds a ripe cherry character to the minty berry flavours of the Cabernet Sauvignon. This is balanced by the rich toastiness of French oak.
Analysis
Alc: 13%, TA: 5.3g/l, pH: 3.69, RS: 2.1g/l