Great Expectations Crane Red Merlot

Vineyard:
A 7-year-old vineyard standing on a southern slope, in soil with very high clay content, with limey spots throughout the vineyard. Rootstock 8-7, Merlot clone Mo12.

Climate:
Moderate temperatures during ripening ensured even ripening. Cool night temperatures were favourable for good colour development in the skins.

Harvest:
Machine harvested from 3am to 11am into 2 ton bins after we did grape selection in the vineyard. Production of 6000/7000 litres per hectare.

Winemaking:
Grapes were harvested at 24 B. Fermentation took place in stainless steel pump-over tanks after a cold soaking period of 2 days. The fermentation temperature was controlled at 25°C. The wine was fermented dry on the skins and then pressed to another tank where malolactic fermentation took place and finished within 3 weeks. The wine was then racked and put into a tank containing French oak staves. Here, the wine spent another 5 months before being fined, stabilised and filtered before bottling.

Tasting Notes:
Ruby red colour, nose of red berries and dried plums complemented by dark chocolate and whiffs of coffee. Soft, rounded mouthfeel and ripe, supple tannins ensure great drinkability. This wine pairs perfectly with cheeses, pastas, red meat dishes, and chargrilled burgers.