Chameleon
2000 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
49% Cabernet Sauvignon, 38% Merlot, 13% 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 12 year old vineyards at 24.1° - 24.8°B between the 19th and 25th February 2000, and the Merlot was harvested at 24°B on the 21st February 2000. The Cabernet Franc was harvested on 28th February 2000 at 25.2° B.
Winemaking
Fermented in overhead retort-shaped, stainless steel fermentors. Pump-overs were done twice 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. The Merlot underwent malo-lactic fermentation in the barrel. The various portions of the blend spent 14 months in 225 litre French oak barrels (mostly Nevers and Alliers).
Tasting Notes
A blend of 49% Cabernet Sauvignon, 38% Merlot and 13% Cabernet Franc. The Merlot 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.
Analysis
Alc: 14.5%, TA: 5.8g/l, pH: 3.56, RS: 2.4g/l