Benguela Cove ‘L.C.’ Moody Lagoon 2022

Benguela Cove ‘Lighthouse Collection’ Moody Lagoon Red Blend 2022

Winemaking

The Moody Lagoon Red Blend 2022 serves as an ode to the Bot River lagoon adjacent to the estate, showcasing the diversity found on the estate. Nicknamed “Moody” the lagoon is known to be unpredictable, changing in colour and flow direction throughout the day. Reflecting all seasons in one day, the lagoon is instrumental in moderating temperatures, joining forces with cool winds caressing the vines from the Atlantic Ocean. Sorted by hand, each cultivar was vinified separately to enhance each varietals’ intrinsic quality before blending. The juice was inoculated with selected yeast strains. Alcoholic fermentation lasted about six days. Gentle pump-overs encouraged gentle flavour and colour extraction. Pressed and settled, the wine was transferred to barrel for malolactic fermentation to encourage a smooth and delicious result.

Tasting Notes

The 2022 Moody Lagoon Red Blend delivers an enticing balance of dark fruit and wild cherries, embraced by cedar and subtle dried herbs such as coriander seeds. Fresh herbaceous aromas reminiscent of crushed rosemary linger on the finish alongside mulberry and blueberry fruit. This blend combines intensity with charming freshness and a well-judged structure, making it a versatile companion for a variety of dishes. Youthful tannins suggest it will benefit from short to medium-term cellaring, softening to reveal even greater harmony over time.

Analysis

Alcohol: 14.0 %
Residual Sugar: 2.5 g/l
Total Acidity: 5.4 g/l
pH: 3.57
Wine of Origin: Walker Bay

Personality

The spectacle that is the lagoon, can be enjoyed in all its moods while sipping on this wine. It calls for long table dinners with friends, offering the perfect balance between fruit and structure. Six red cultivars combine forces to introduce a wine that delivers on fruit purity with enough gravitas to announce intensity, balance and charming freshness. This wine is a culinary gem as well as a trusted companion on the table when old friends get together for a hearty meal. Time will soothe the youthful tannin.