Wine Composition
Merlot 93%; Cabernet Franc 7%
Winemakers Comments
This is a typical cool climate Merlot with a gorgeous plum colour. Aromas of deep red berry fruit, raspberries, blackberries and red cherries, later showing hints of mocha and coffee. The underlying spiciness which is typical of cool climate grapes pushes through the fruit quite powerfully. On the palate plenty of ripe red berries coupled with a delicate spiciness. The wine is well rounded with a velvety, lingering finish.
Awards
Wine Advocate: 90 Points
SAWI Awards 2017: Grand Gold
Tim Atkin SA Report 2016: 91 Points Awards
4.5 Stars, 2018 Platter Wine Guide
Technical Analysis
Alcohol Percentage
14.2%
TA
5.2 g/l
pH
3.60
RS
2.71 g/l
Cellar Techniques
The grapes for this wine were the 8th and 9th vintage off twelve and thirteen of old vines. The vineyard aspects range from North East to North West, against rugged mountain slopes. All grapes were hand-picked, hand sorted and crushed into medium sized open top fermenters. Punch-downs and pump-over’s were performed three to four times per day, these practices being determined by twice daily tastings of the tanks.
Fermentation took 9 days to complete, after which the free run wine was drawn off and the skins pressed separately. The wine was then racked into first, second and third fills barrels where malo-lactic fermentation took place. Six different cooperages were used, each specifically chosen to complement the different nuances of this very complex wine. During maturation, the wine was racked three times. After 18 months in barrel the best barrels were racked to tank and blended to create a harmonious finished product. A light filtration preceded bottling in February 2014.
Winemaker
Stuart Botha
Winery
Eagles' Nest, located on the crest of Constantia Nek pass, is nestled at the foot of the awe inspiring Table Mountain. This pristine and boutique family owned vineyard (38 Ha in size) has in recent years gained a striking reputation for both its beauty and award winning wines.
Uniquely characteristic of its wines is its signature of finesse, derived from the cooler climate conditions its vines are exposed to as a result of its elevation and close proximity to the oceanic body that is False Bay, thus delivering very distinctive wines not found elsewhere in South Africa.
Quality and consistency is paramount at Eagles' Nest. Our unique terroir, combined with meticulous attention to detail in the vineyards and cellar, yields wines that are the epitome of elegance and balance.
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