Reserve Collection Cabernet Sauvignon

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Viticulturist’s Details

88% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Merlot and 4% Malbec  from vineyards in the Dwars River valley which Boschendal straddles, with an average of 4 tonnes per hectare. Each of these vineyards was selected for its unique characteristics that it imparts on the wine.

Vineyard Management

Spur-pruning started in mid-July , followed by shoot-thinning in mid-October leaving and average of two to three shoots per spur. This was repeated in early December, when additional poor shoots were removed. Careful tipping of shoots started at the end of January to ensure the concentration of nutrients in the berries. Small, uneven bunches were removed two weeks prior to harvesting.

Harvest

A long maturation period and late ripening characterized the 2003 vintage, allowing for wines of great depth and complexity. These grapes were picked at the end of March 2003 and hand-picked into small containers to minimize damage during transport to the cellar.

Vinification

Picked at 25°Balling, the grapes were crushed and then fermented at 28°C and macerated for twenty-eight days on the skins before being gently pressed.  After malolactic fermentation, 30% of the wine was matured for 16 months in new French oak and the balance in 2^nd fill barrels.

Wine Maker's Tasting Note’s

This classic Cabernet Sauvignon has layers of cassis, red fruits, pungent aromas of fresh herbs and hints of spice on the nose. It has a fine, dense tannic structure which supports the succulent fruit on the palate.  The wine has a good balance, concentration and finesse and will improve with time in the bottle. This is a fine tribute to Boschendal’s vision of producing wines that are classic, elegant and unique.

Alcohol14.7%Vol pH3.3 Residual Sugar3.3g/l Total Acid6.2g/l RegionCoastal