Chameleon

1997 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

56% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, 19% Cabernet Franc

Vineyards

The Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot grapes were selected from north and east-facing vineyards situated on decomposed granite and loamy soils. The Cabernet Franc grapes were selected from a west-facing vineyard on deep clay-loam soils.

Harvest Date

The Cabernet Sauvignon was harvested from 10 year old vineyards at 23.3° - 23.9° Balling between 21 and 28 March 1997, and the Merlot was harvested at 23° Balling on 21 March 1997. The Cabernet Franc was harvested on 28 March 1997 at 23.5° Balling.

Winemaking

Fermented in overhead retort-shaped, stainless steel fermentors. Pump-overs done twice daily during fermentation. The Merlot received extended maceration on the skins after fermentation. The use of gravity and gentle pressing ensures full-flavoured wines with soft, balanced tannins. Malo-lactic fermentation was completed in the tank and the various portions of the blend spent between 7 and 12 months in 225 litre French oak barrels (mostly Nevers and Alliers).

Tasting Notes

A blend of 56% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot and 19% Cabernet Franc. The Merlot portion adds a ripe cherry character to the minty berry flavours of the Cabernet Sauvignon. The Cabernet Franc adds a spiciness to the blend which is balanced by the rich toastiness of French oak. Drinking well now but will benefit from 4-5 years maturation.

Analysis

Alc: 13%,  TA: 5.9g/l,  pH: 3.74,  RS: 1.9g/l