Bradgate

2009 Bradgate Cabernet Sauvignon / Merlot

Description

Over a century has passed since Alfred Jordan settled in the Winelands of theWestern Capeand 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 theNew Worldwith the elegance of Classic wine styles, ensuring well-structured wines with a complex concentration of fruit and flavour.

Variety

63 % Cabernet Sauvignon, 32% Merlot and 5% Shiraz.

Vineyards

The Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot grapes were selected from north and east-facing vineyards situated on decomposed granite and loamy soils. The Shirazgrapes 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 23.7°B between 11^th and 26^th March 2009. The Merlot was harvested at an average of 24.1°B between 27^th February and 3^rd March 2008. The Shiraz was harvested at an average of 23°B between 7^th and 17^th 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 andShiraz all underwent malo-lactic fermentation in the barrel. The various portions of the blend spent 10-16 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: 13.5%         TA: 5.9g/l         pH: 3.61         RS: 3.3g/l