100% Cabernet Franc – W.O Stellenbosch - Loire Clone Cabernet

The wine is made up of two parcels, both quite close to each other. One portion is from Bluegum Grove Farm in the Polkadraai, farmed by Danie Carinus and planted in 2004 and the other based on Klein Welmoed next to Meerlust which is farmed by Pierre Winshaw and planted in 2008. The fruit is picked and vinified separately and only blended before bottling. The two vineyards are planted on decomposed granite with Koffieklip in the top layer of soil.

On the 2004 vineyard which is a Loire clone we do 100% whole-bunch fermentation. This vineyard makes up 25% of the final wine. The other vineyard was 100% de-stemmed. The de-stemmed vineyard spent 10 weeks on the skins this vintage. One punch down was performed per day. After pressing, the two parcels underwent malolactic fermentation in barrel on their own. The wines were blended after 10 months in barrel and bottled right after. No enzymes or commercial yeast was used in making the wines.

Tasting Notes: The bouquet unfolds with remarkable complexity, offering an interplay of red and black cherries, delicate violets, and subtle crushed herbs. Nuanced accents of pencil shavings and wild fynbos lend further aromatic intrigue. On the palate, the wine is medium-bodied yet energetic, driven by a vibrant core of juicy red fruit. Bright acidity and supple, velvety tannins provide structure and finesse, ensuring impeccable balance and poise. The finish is long, dry, and insistent, leaving a lasting impression of purity, precision, and vitality.

80% of grapes from Lynedoch (destemmed) and 20% from Polkadraai Hills (whole-bunch fermented). Aromatics of pencil shavings, red and black cherries, violets, herbs and crushed leaves. Medium-bodied with vivid acidity and velvety tannins – neither overly stern nor overly plush. A wine of balance and vibrancy. Alc: 13.4%. CE’s rating: 94/100