CWG

2008 Sophia

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. The Philosophy behind the Sophia was to produce a benchmark red blend, classic yet with a new world twist to rival some of the best of Bordeaux.

Variety

44% Cabernet Sauvignon, 44% Merlot, 12% Cabernet Franc

Vineyards

Harvest Date

Winemaking

A blend of the best “Cobblers  Hill”  barrels  and  a  reserve Cabernet Sauvignon,  this wine  has   been  named  “Sophia”   after the legendary mother   of   Faith, Hope and Charity.   Representing the characteristics of the three Bordeaux varieties that makes up this exceptional wine, the Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot grapes were harvested from the hillside.  Vineyards at Jordan with views overlooking Table Mountain and False Bay.  Fermented at 28°C with  three pump-overs daily over the fermenting cap. After pressing, the wine was   racked to barrel where it   completed malolactic fermentation. The wine spent a total of 26 months  in 225-litre French oak barrels to integrate the rich tannins and add complexity.

Tasting Notes

Complex, dark chocolate, black cherry and   cassis intertwine with rich blackberry fruit and hints of vanilla and spice from the integrated French oak.  Densely layered ripe tannins add to the opulent   finish. Well-structured, this wine will reward careful cellaring for many years to come.

Analysis

Alc: 13.5, TA: 6.1g/l, pH : 3.66, RS: 1.6g/l