Estate Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon

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Made only from Estate-grown grapes that are picked and sorted by hand. Each harvest-parcel and individual clones are vinified separately. Harvested grapes are destemmed, crushed and pumped into open top fermentation tanks where they undergo a 21-day maceration period involving a 7-day fermentation with pump-overs and manual punch-downs 2-4 times daily. Barrel maturation in 100% French oak barrels (20% new, 20% 2nd fill, 20% 3rd fill, 40% 4th fill), in 300l barrels for 18 months

The vintage of 2018 was challenging because it was the fourth consecutive year of drought, bringing dry conditions with water restrictions. Careful water management was essential, but the benefit of the dry weather meant very healthy vines. The dry conditions also resulted in smaller berries, which in turn provide excellent colour and flavour intensity. Cooler nights towards the end of February meant a longer hang time, allowing for further flavour development. Despite the irrigation challenges and a smaller crop, 2018 bodes very well for high quality wines.

Malolactic Fermentation in barrel. 18 months in 300L French oak barrels. 20% new oak, medium toast.