Description

The wine:  The Merlot (65%) and Cabernet Sauvignon (35%) components were sourced from older vines (9 and 21 years respectively) planted on shale (Merlot) and decomposed granite (Cabernet Sauvignon) soils.

The Merlot component was fermented on the skins for 8 days with 3-4 pump overs per day, and with malolactic fermentation completed in the barrel. The wine was then matured for 10 months in a combination of new (50% of the wine), 2^nd fill (10%), 3^rd fill (25%) and older (15%) French oak barrels.

The Cabernet Sauvignon component was fermented on the skins for 8 days, completed malolactic fermentation in the tank and then matured for 6 months on high quality French oak staves.

Friesland Merlot-Cabernet Sauvignon has a dark maroon core with a bright red rim and is a classy, structured and silky wine, full-bodied and balanced. The Merlot component brings soft tannins, coffee and plum flavours to the blend, with the Cabernet Sauvignon part adding structure, weight and flavours of blackcurrant, lead pencil and chocolate.

The occasion: Enjoy these honest family Stellenbosch wines tonight or over the next decade. The wine pairs particularly well with braised pork belly, chalmar beef rump and

Merlot 65% / Cabernet Sauvignon 35%

ANALYSIS: TA 5,6 g/L; pH 3,63; RS 2,7 g/L; Alcohol 14%

WINE OF ORIGIN: Stellenbosch

AWARDS: Platter’s rating – 85, Platter’s Good Value, Gilberg & Gaillard – Gold