Country: South Africa Region: Western Cape Vintage: 2018 Grapes: Cabernet/Merlot Producer: Boschendal Description: A blend of 48% Cabernet Sauvignon and 41% Merlot, 6% Cabernet franc and 5% Malbec. Grapes are from vineyards in Stellenbosch, Agter Paarl and other selected areas in the Coastal region of the Western Cape. 2018 was a warmer red wine vintage, resulting in excellent ripe tannins and wines with great volume. The vineyards were harvested between mid-February to end of March, depending on variety. All grapes were harvested by hand.  Fermentation varied according to variety, with fermentations taking on average 8 - 10 days until dryness. For all fermentations remontage (pump-over method) was preferred for colour extraction. 10% of the wine was matured in new French oak 15% in 2nd and 25% in 3rd fill barrels for one year. 25% was matured on French oak staves and 25% was without any oak. The wine was bottled after a simple filtration. Tasting Note: An impressive burst of rich red and black fruit from cassis to mulberry, with soft well-rounded tannins and a discreet hint of mint. Although ready to drink now, a few years of cellaring will allow further integration and complexity. A great wine with hearty stews and perfectly grilled steaks.