Benguela Cove Malbec 2020

Benguela Cove Malbec 2020

Winemaking

Harvested at optimal ripeness, grapes were chilled overnight followed by both bunch and berry sorting the next morning. After a 3 day, cold maceration the juice was allowed to warm up to 16°C. To enhance the varietal’s intrinsic qualities, the juice was inoculated with a selected yeast strain. Alcoholic fermentation lasted about six days. Gentle pump-overs encouraged delicate flavour and colour extraction. Pressed and settled, the wine was transferred to the barrel for malolactic fermentation to further smooth out its edges. Oak maturation: 18 months

Tasting Notes

Deep, vibrant ruby in the glass, suggesting concentration without heaviness. Aromatically it leans into dark plum and black cherry with hints of blueberry, blackberry, liquorice, violet and a twist of black pepper, supported by subtle notes of cocoa, leather and tobacco from oak. The palate is medium to full bodied with a core of ripe black and red fruit, framed by firm but polished tannins that give structure without austerity. Fresh coastal acidity keeps the wine energetic, drawing the flavours through to a long finish where darker fruit, gentle spice and a touch of chalky grip linger.

Analysis

Alcohol: 14.0 %
Residual Sugar: 2.6 g/l
Total Acidity: 5.8 g/l
pH: 3.56
Wine of Origin: Walker Bay

Personality

This wine delivers on pure fruit that will benefit the wine in the long run. The fruit is caressed with a cool, spicy note that adds freshness. Tightly knit tannins and an electric purple hue are indicative of youth and longevity. Distinct and delivering on intensity, length, and balance.