Wine Composition

66% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Cabernet Franc, 9% Petit Verdot, 7% Merlot, 3% Malbec

Winemakers Comments

Rich aromas of cassis and spice with intense liquorice and blackberry flavors on the palate and fine, lingering tannins. Optimal ageing potential of 8 - 10 years

Awards

Technical Analysis

Alcohol Percentage

14.82%

TA

5.9 g/l

pH

3.47

RS

2.3 g/l

Vinification

Extensive sorting of the grapes formed part of the quality management process. The grapes were de-stemmed with 30% being crushed to give body and structure for added longevity. 70% whole berry fermentation in cooler temperatures of 24°C - 26°C and gentle punch downs ensured subtle extraction of red fruit characters. The Cabernet Sauvignon of the Botmaskop received 4 weeks of maturation on the skin, post ferment. After basket pressing the wine matured in 40% new French oak barrels for 16 months, where partial malolactic fermentation took place.

Morné Vrey

Winery

Delaire Graff Estate is situated in Stellenbosch in the heart of South Africa’s most historic and prestigious wine region. Founded by Simon van der Stel in 1679, Simon brought a sound knowledge of viticulture, the art of winemaking – fostering a tradition that has grown from strength to strength through the centuries. In 1982 John Platter, well-known wine writer, bought Delaire, then known as Avontuur. Looking at the magnificent view, he decided to rename the farm Delaire Estate, meaning "From the Sky”. Laurence Graff, Chairman of Graff Diamonds International acquired the estate in 2003 and vowed to transform it into South Africa’s most desirable art, hospitality and wine destination. Today, with two outstanding restaurants, a state-of-the-art winery, exclusive Lodges, a destination Spa and two luxury boutiques, the transformation of this piece of paradise is complete.
Delaire Graff Estate’s unique terroir on the crest of the panoramic Helshoogte Mountain Pass is noted for its high-altitude vineyards, excellent soils, and cooling sea breezes. Delaire Graff Estate aims for red wines that are big in structure with soft tannins and elegance, and white wines which capture the freshness of the harvest. With one of the most advanced cellars in the Southern Hemisphere, which became operational in 2008, in just three years the Estate can be comfortably rated as one of the top ten wine producers in South Africa. From the outset, wine quality has been superb and Delaire has achieved a stellar rise.