Bradgate
2008 Cabernet Sauvignon / Merlot Blend
Description
Over a century has passed since Alfred Jordan settled in the Winelands of the Western Cape and named his family home Bradgate. Today, Bradgate Wines are produced by the Jordan Family from classic varieties grown in the Stellenbosch region. The Bradgate range combines the soft, accessible fruit of the New World with the elegance of Classic wine styles, ensuring well-structured wines with a complex concentration of fruit and flavour.
Variety
45 % Cabernet Sauvignon, 37% Merlot and 18% 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 – 21 years.
Harvest Date
The Cabernet Sauvignon was harvested at an average of 23.5°B between 10th and 25th March 2008. The Merlot was harvested at an average of 23.5°B between 27th February and 14th March 2008. The Shiraz was harvested at an average of 25°B between 18th and 25th March 2008.
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: 14.0% TA: 5.7g/l pH: 3.57 RS: 2.3g/l