Description
Benefiting from diverse soil types, unpolluted air and free-flowing, crystal-clear water, Cederberg Wines is situated at 1 036 metres above sea level in a virus-free growing area. Consequently, 250 kilometres from Cape Town you will find the highest wine farm in the Western Cape. The climate is described as cool continental. In summer, expect a dramatic temperature drop at night; and, in winter, snow-capped mountains.
WINE MAKING: Merlot and Shiraz grapes are hand-harvested at 24–25 °B and vinified separately. Grapes are cold soaked for two days before being inoculated with yeast. During fermentation, colour/ flavour extraction takes place with regular pumpovers every six hours. A maximum temperature of 27 °C is reached. Once malolactic fermentation is completed in tank, the wine is matured for an additional 12 months in 225l French oak barrels (60% 3rd and 40% 4th fill medium and tight-grain barrels with medium and medium-plus toasting. Blending only takes place after maturation: 73% Merlot and 27% Shiraz.
TASTING NOTES BY SANDY HARPER CWM: The beautiful, deep, burgundy-red colour of this wine leads to opulent aromas of plump black cherries and mulberries. Crushed black pepper and baker’s spices add a delicious dimension to this very appealing wine. This fruit-driven blend with its soft, juicy tannins, broad flavours and refreshing acidity creates a lingering spicy fruit finish. This is a well-crafted wine that punches way above its price point. Optimum Drinking Time: Drink now, or keep for four more years.
FOOD PAIRING: The Cederberg Merlot-Shiraz 2022 is a superb all-rounder! Open a bottle to get the party going or serve it around a braai, your favourite slow-roasted casserole or a potjie. Or simply sip on it by the glass while you share special times with friends and family. The broad flavour profile of this wine should complement every occasion and most flavours. Just be mindful of strong spices and Indian-style hot curries.
ACCOLADE:
- Platter’s SA Wine Guide ’23: 4 stars – 2020 vintage
- Platter’s SA Wine Guide ’22: 4 stars – 2019 vintage
- Platter’s SA Wine Guide ’20: 4 stars – 2017 vintage
ANALYSIS:
Alc 14% vol
TA 5.7 g/l
RS 3.1 g/l
pH 3.59
