KAH-SHAR 2005

Whenever I go to Hermanus, I leave early in the morning, my surfboard and wetsuit in the back of the bakkie, to squeeze in an early morning surf at Koeelbay. I subsequently arrived in Hermanus, just in time to still appreciate the cool sea mist hanging in the Hemel and Aarde valley. As the morning unfolded, the mist slowly cleared away revealing a spectacular view of Pinot noir vineyards as you pass Hamilton Russel vineyards. As I entered deeper into the valley, I found more and more cultivars planted on cool slopes. Some Pinotage, Sauvignon blanc, Chardonnay, Merlot and, of course, Shiraz. The valley is known as a cool climate (according to South African standards) wine producing area. I love the area.

During the day I stopped at literally ALL the wineries in the valley. I tasted a variety of excellent wines, but unfortunately for me, all bottled and labelled under the estates’ label. I was searching for someone to help me with my next wine. I was looking for wines that’s in barrel and reflects the area they are from. Wines with personality, firm but soft in tannins, abundant in fruit with a high natural acidity.

After stopping at all the wineries, except one, in the valley I returned home empty handed. First thing, the very next morning, my phone rang. It was the only winery I did not visit the previous day, offering me a wine to purchase! I tasted the wine, and yes, the wine is from the valley and 100% Merlot 2005.

Tasting notes: BLANKbottle – KAH-SHAR Merlot 2005. Excellent light toned yet full-flavoured with velvet tannins in perfect balance. An elegant and silky textured wine characterized by the cool maritime climate of the growing region.

Analysis:
Alcohol: 14.3%
VA 0.52 g/l
pH 3.14
Acid 7.62 g/l
Residual Sugar 2.76 g/l
Ageing potential: Optimum – 2 to 5 years.