Chameleon

2008 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

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 23.5B between 10th and 25th.

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