Description

Winemaker: Christoff de Wet
Appellation: Calitzdorp
Grape varietal: 78% Touriga Nacional, 20% Tinta Roriz, 2% Tinta Barocca

Vineyards

Portuguese varieties were planted in Calitzdorp during the early 1970’s with Tinta Barocca being the first to find its way to the Klein Karoo. The red clay soils and continental climate of Calitzdorp, very similar to that of the Douro valley in Portugal, is ideal for growing these unique varieties.   All vines are micro irrigated on VSP trellising systems to ensure the best quality fruit possible.

Winemaking

Selected grapes were handpicked at 24.5º Balling.  Touriga Nacional, Tinta Roriz and Tinta Barocca grapes were vinified separately in open fermenters until fermentation has stopped.  Skins were then pressed and the wine was left to undergo malolactic fermentation in concrete tanks.  After malolactic fermentation the wine was matured in new, 2^nd, 3^rd and 4^th fill French Oak barrels for 12 months.  After ageing, the best barrels were meticulously selected and the final blend was made from these barrels.

Winemaker’s comments

Colour: Dark red plum.

Bouquet: Full fruit aromas of raspberry, prunes and mulberries, with hints of dark chocolate and spice.

Taste: Full-bodied with flavours of violets and dark fruit with savoury notes. Well structured tannins and balanced integrated oak.  Superb ageing potential.

Food pairing:

Pairs beautifully with venison and ostrich steak, ostrich pies, roasted leg of lamb and beef fillet.

Chemical analysis

Alcohol: 13.50
pH: 3.69
TA: 6.1 g/l
RS: 3.6 g/l
Extract: 33.6 g/l

Awards

Parker 90 points (2013 Vintage)
Old Mutual Trophy (Best Red Blend)
Platter 4½ star – 2018, 2019
Tim Atkin 93 Points (2016 Vintage)
Top 100 SA Wines ‘11, Double Gold ‘16
Six Nations Challenge Gold