Brampton Wines Roxton Stellenbosch South Africa, 2021

THE BLEND

Petit Verdot 69%; Shiraz 24%; Malbec 7%

WINEMAKER’S TASTING NOTES

The Petit Verdot contributes to the muscular structure of the wine while the Shiraz adds a distinctive flavour and spice to the mid-palate. The Malbec adds bright berry fruit. This wine displays delicious dark black cherries with dark chocolate and spice on the mid-palate and a lingering finish.

PAIRING SUGGESTION

This seamless red blend is best matched with robust red meat dishes, such as steak (served with chunky chips and a horseradish cream), venison, roast leg of wild boar or even a pulled pork burger.

AGING POTENTIALTECHNICAL ANALYSIS

Drinking well already yet promises greater integration and intrigue for up to 10 years from vintage.

IN THE VINEYARDS

The Petit Verdot vineyard is situated in the Helderberg area and has well-drained soils. The Shiraz and Malbec originated from vineyards on weathered granite soils closer to the Atlantic Ocean. These vineyards are all exposed to cool early afternoon sea breezes, enhancing the flavours of the wine.

VINIFICATION

The grapes were hand-harvested and bunch selection took place in the vineyards. On arrival at the cellar bunches were destemmed and machine-sorted, then cold soaked for 48 hours. Fermentation took place, with frequent but gentle pump overs ensuring fine tannin extraction. After malolactic fermentation in stainless steel tanks, thereafter barrel maturation took place in first, second and older 300-litre barrels for 18-months before final blending and bolting.