Cabernet Sauvignon

Nederburg Private Bin wines are sold exclusively on the annual by-invitation-only Nederburg Auction. The label is reserved for specialist, vineyard-selected, limited-edition wines that are hand-made and while classically styled, exhibit prominent fruit flavours. Vineyards The grapes were sourced from two dryland sites in the Paarl region. These vineyards grow in red/yellow Tukulu/Clovelly soils ideal for root penetration due to its good water-holding capacity and limited compactness. Both sites are low-yielding and produce small-berried, loose bunches picked at a suitable level of phenolic ripeness. While Cabernet bunches tend to be fairly compact, the prevailing micro-climatic conditions were conducive to a looser bunch formation, making for more even ripening. The fruit growing at lower altitudes, contributing 60% to the blend, provided the strong aromatic features and dark fruit flavours, while the fruit from vines situated at a higher altitude provided the red fruit, herbaceous and gooseberry qualities. Winemaking The grapes were harvested at 25º Balling and each block was individually vinified. Open-top fermenters were used for a greater measure of control. Its large surface area provided an excellent ratio between the cap and the wine itself, thereby enhancing colour and eventual flavour. The wine was matured in a combination of new-, second- and third-fill small, French oak barrels for a period of 18 months prior to blending. It received a light egg-white fining before filtration. Only 1 200 litres of this wine were produced. Bouquet Aromas of blackcurrant, cassis, chocolate and mocha. Palate Ripe blackberry and currant flavours, mocha and a hint of oak spices with firm, but supple tannins. Alcohol 14,48% by volume Residual Sugar 1,90 grams/litre pH 3,44, Total acidity 6,30 grams/litre

Excellent served with rosemary-infused lamb, petit poussin with thyme, seared AAA rump, fillet or sirloin, or Châteaubriand.