Description
Oirigin :Helderberg, Stellenbosch
Aspect: West & North-West facing slopes
Soil: Decomposed granite –Tukulu
Altitude: 345 m above sea level
Proximity to the ocean: 9 km from False Bay
Vintage conditions:
An exceptional cold winter and overall cool weather with above average rainfall made for the perfect growing season. Winter rainfall was 607 mm and there was snow on the peak of the Helderberg Mountain above the farm. A cool and wet budding season with less wind than expected during flowering, made for a challenging period. With 50 mm rain during ripening and temperatures rising moderately, we experienced a fairly cool period. Moisture levels remained favourable and overall the conditions were ideal – one of the best seasons experienced to date with excellent concentration and
elegant flavour in our berries.
Maturation:
17 Months in French oak barrels, 55 % new
Optimum serving temperature: 17 – 18 °C
TASTING NOTES:
Colour: Light garnet
Nose: Fragrant layers of violet and rose petal laden black cherry aromatics make a lingering impression on the nose. A real signature expression of terroir with fresh tobacco leaf and subtle graphite lift.
Palate: Crisp red fruit and crushed black cherry show lovely purity and concentration with a hint of rose water and a touch of fresh tobacco leaf. Delicate texture on the palate with a dense, well balanced and fine tannin structure. The finish is fresh and perfumed, yet savoury, with a touch of graphite. Expressive, mineral and precise – a very stylish Cabernet Franc.
