ISA 42 2003

Merlot 2003 - Simonsberg Stellenbosch The grapes came from a vineyard on the foothills of the Simonsberg, just outside Stellenbosch.

The Story:

This specific Merlot spent almost 2 years in brand new French oak. The wine is from a single vineyard from Stellenbosch.

The grapes came from a vineyard on the foothills of the Simonsberg, just outside Stellenbosch. The minimum slope and the water holding capacity of the clay provides an environment where irrigation is not necessary. The rootstock is Richter 99 and the Clone MO36A. The grapes were harvested at optimal ripeness (summer of 2003). French yeast was used and fermentation took place in Stainless steel tanks with frequent pumpovers (4x per day). Skin contact for a total of 18 days. The wine were racked to barrel (70% new and 30% second fill) for 18 months).

Volume: 6400 Bottles.

Tasting notes: This is a food wine. It’s got massive structure with intense berry fruit and mint leaves on the nose. The wine is thick, dark in colour, big tannin structure but still classy and serious! Ripe, supple tannin integrated with warm, bright fruit!

The wine has very soft tannins and is ready for immediate consumption, with good ageing potential (8 to 10 years).