Chameleon
2009
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
60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 34 % Merlot and 6% 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 8 – 22 years.
Harvest Date
The Cabernet Sauvignon was harvested at an average of 23.5°B between 3rd and 26th March 2009. The Merlot was harvested at an average of 24°B between 27th February and 3rd March 2009. TheShiraz was harvested at an average of 23°B between 7th and 17th March 2009.
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 andShirazall underwent malo-lactic fermentation in the barrel. The various portions of the blend spent 20 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 theShirazadds a spicy complexity to the blend.
Analysis
Alc: 14.0% TA: 5.8g/l pH: 3.62 RS: 3.3g/l
Awards
Received 3 stars in the 2012 Platter’s South African Wine Guide