IN THE VINEYARD: The 2015 vintage was our driest and earliest harvest in a very long
time, with a resultant small crop, very healthy harvest with low disease stress. With the
absence of the usual heat waves in most regions, cooler than usual weather in February
was ideal for ripening and harvesting. Lower temperatures at night during this time
contributed towards good colour and flavour particularly in red cultivars. Temperatures
escalated again during March, which led to the harvest ending approximately two weeks
earlier than usual in most regions. Promising grape analyses with low pH plus good
acidity and sugar levels, indicated high quality wines to come from this vintage. Smaller
berries coupled with moderate temperatures during the harvest time led to good colour
and intense flavour in this year’s red wines.
VINTAGE NOTES: The vineyards for this specific blend were chosen from our best
sites at L’Ormarins in Franschhoek. The decomposed granite from L’Ormarins vineyards
facilitates richness, fullness, and a darker fruit profile.
TASTING NOTES: Richly seductive with its mélange of black fruits, spice, tobacco leaf,
and a captivating floral hint on the nose.
Those same opulent berry compote notes are apparent in the mouth: raspberry, blue,
and black berries with some violets and nutty spice reminiscent of toasted pecans and
hazelnuts. Taut, focused, and reflective of an excellent vintage, the wine has yet to unfurl
and show its true colours. It's harmonious, graceful, and richly textured, with a lovely
oak platform, but it'll benefit from more aging to reveal its full complexity. Long,
impactful, and memorable flavour.
CULTIVAR(S): 41% Cabernet Franc, 32% Cabernet Sauvignon, 27% Merlot
