Chameleon

2006 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, 37% Merlot and 14% Shiraz

Vineyards

The Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot grapes were selected from north and east-facing vineyards situated on decomposed granite and loamy soils. The Shiraz grapes were selected from west-facing vineyards on deep clay-loam soils. The vineyards range in age from between 7 – 16 years.

Harvest Date

The Cabernet Sauvignon was harvested at 23.7° - 24.3°B between 27^th February and 7^th March 2006. The Merlot was harvested at 23.9°B - 24.1°B between 14^th and 21^st February 2006. The Shiraz was harvested at 23.7° B on 27^th February 2006.

 

Winemaking

Fermented in overhead retort-shaped, stainless steel fermentors. Pump-overs were done three times daily during fermentation.  The use of gravity and gentle pressing ensure full-flavoured wines with soft, balanced tannins. The Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Shiraz all underwent malo-lactic fermentation in the barrel. The various portions of the blend spent 16-18 months in 225 litre French oak barrels (mostly Nevers and Alliers).

Tasting Notes

Rich, plummy Merlot complements the minty, blackcurrant flavours of Cabernet Sauvignon. The peppery, dark berry fruit of the Shiraz adds a spicy complexity to the blend.

 

Analysis

Alc: 13.5.0%,  TA: 6.4g/l,  pH: 3.62,  RS: 1.8g/l