• French oak
• Blackcurrant
• Spice & cigar
• Generous

In your glass you will be greeted by an intense dark red colour. The 2020 ‘Reserve Vintage’ Cabernet Merlot embraces the tradition established by this blend. The Cabernet Sauvignon is the backbone of this wine with the Merlot adding to the fruit profile while the Cabernet Franc is the catalyst that enhances and unifies the mid palate. Dark in colour, the 2020 Cabernet Merlot exhibits blackberry, blackcurrant, dried herbs, earthy spice and cigar box. The new French oak adds to the mid palate which is generous and appealing. Cellaring will be rewarded.

The Cabernet Sauvignon was grown at Ohiti Estate in the Ohiti Valley, and the Merlot on Mere Road near Fernhill. The Merlot was harvested on the 27th of March and the Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc were harvested on the 11th April. The Merlot Clone is the reliable 481 and the Cabernet Sauvignon is the exciting LC10. There is also 10% Cabernet Franc in this blend. All three varieties are grown in gravel soils.

The 3varietals were tank fermented on their skins at 25 - 30°C for around 14 days with daily pump overs. The juice was then drained off and the grapes were pressed. Only the best pressings were added back to the free run juice. Malolactic fermentation then took place before it was transferred into predominantly new French oak barrels for approximately 13 months.

Food Pairing: Sirloin Steak nicely seasoned with herbs, and served medium-rare.