Proprietor's Blend 2022

Opaque crimson. Opens with savoury intensity, charred meat, black cedar, cassis, hints of balsamic and crushed juniper. The aromatics follow onto the palate weaving through a dark heart of blackcurrant, flowing to ruby-bright pomegranate.

Viticulture

The Cabernet Sauvignon vineyards grow on the warm north-facing slopes of the Helderberg region within the Stellenbosch appellation. The soils contain a high gravel content which offers rich middle palate weight giving this wine exceptional depth and fruit purity. With an altitude of approximately 250 metres above sea level together with the cooling influence of the Atlantic Ocean just 15 kilometres away, this extends the ripening period by up to 3 weeks resulting in lovely phenolic ripeness.

Viniculture

The grapes were hand-harvested in the cool of the early morning. Whole berries were fermented in Nico Velo concrete tanks with intermittent pump-overs and punch-downs to ensure a balance between flavour, colour and tannin extraction from the skins. The Shiraz component was partially whole bunch fermented to aid with flavour complexity. All ferments were meticulously monitored to ensure that the natural aromas and flavours were preserved. After primary fermentation, some tanks underwent extended maceration. Each variety was matured separately in oak before final blending and bottling.

Tasting Notes

Opaque crimson. Opens with savoury intensity, charred meat, black cedar, cassis, hints of balsamic and crushed juniper. The aromatics follow onto the palate weaving through a dark heart of blackcurrant, flowing to ruby-bright pomegranate. The fruit carries along a crystalline acidity, the tannins tight and focused. Sumptuous with fruited depth, the six varieties are in perfect, harmonic accord. Built to age gracefully.

Technical Data

Wine of Origin: Stellenbosch
Cabernet Sauvignon 60%; Shiraz 30%; Merlot 10%
Alc 14% by Vol. – R.S. 2.5 g/l – T.A. 5.9 g/l – pH 3.61
Aged for 18 months in French oak barrels (60% new)

Awards

Decanter World Wine Awards 2025 - 96 Points (Gold)

Vegan Certified

Vivino: https://www.vivino.com/w/75966?year=2022