WINE TASTING NOTES The 2019 blend presents initial aromas of black pepper, spice and red fruit. On the palate, there are red berries and oak. The wine finishes with soft velvety tannins and a hint of oak.
 
VITICULTURE: The grapes were harvested from north-facing vineyards situated on the slopes of the Simonsberg mountain where they are cooled down by an Atlantic breeze in the summer months. The granite soils are iron-rich and protect the vines from the dry and hot summers while allowing for the development of bold flavours.
 
VINIFICATION: Each of the cultivars was harvested and processed into different stainless-steel tanks, French oak barrels and open concrete fermenters. The grapes were then vinified separately to allow the winemaker to create an optimum blend. At first, punch downs were done four to five times per day, whereafter only gentle pump-overs were performed. The wines were left on their skins for 21 days of post-fermentation maceration before pressing took place. Finally, the wines underwent malolactic fermentation in barrels for optimal oak integration.
 
MATURATION: The different wines were left to age in a variety of French oak and concrete vessels for about 22 months before they were pumped out to be blended and bottled. The Simonsberg Red Blend of 2019 was bottle-aged for two years before it was released.
 
FOOD PAIRING This wine is excellent on its own, with a rich matured cheese, or paired with hearty red meat dishes, such as beef bourguignon or tomato bredie.
 
WINE INFORMATION: Cultivar/s | Shiraz 56% | Cabernet Sauvignon 25% | Merlot 9% | Malbec 4% | Cabernet Franc 4% | Petit Verdot 2% Vintage | 2019 Origin | Simonsberg Stellenbosch Harvested | March 2018 Bottled | 21 January 2020
 
WINE ANALYSIS Alcohol: 14.5% Residual Sugar: 2.7g/L Total Acidity: 6.2g/L pH: 3.46