Merlot Reserve 2007

Vergelegen, teknisk ark/fact sheet (vergelegen.co.za – linket fra vergelegen.co.za, hentet 2026-10-18): 2007 Vergelegen Merlot Reserve; 88% Merlot, 6% Cabernet Franc, 6% Petit Verdot; alkohol 13.8%. Producentens noter (engelsk): Tech sheet: RESERVE MERLOT 2007 Origin The grapes were all selected from the Vergelegen vineyards; the Merlot from Rooiland, the Petit Verdot from Dorsland and the Cabernet Franc from Kopland. Vinification The fruit was picked at peak physiological ripeness to avoid the necessity of adding acid and prevent the extraction of hard tannins. Picking took place from 13 March to 4 April 2007. The grape juice was inoculated with 2 yeast strains, D21 and D254. Fermentation took place at a consistent 25°C. The young wine was left to macerate on its skins for a further 7 weeks before pressing. Malolactic fermentation was induced in stainless steel tanks and was followed by maturation in 225l French oak barrels for 16 months. The wine was bottled from 3-6 October 2008. Total production came down to 29 000 cork stoppered single bottles, 880 Stelvin closed bottles and 217 magnums. Composition 88 % Merlot 6 % Cabernet Franc 6 % Petit Verdot Analysis 13.76% Alc 2.3 g/l RS 5.3 g/l TA 3.56 pH Maturation Accessible after one year in the bottle but will improve in bottle for at least 6-8 years. Tasting Note Ripe plum colour with a ruby rim. The nose shows ripe fruit flavours, black cherries, spice and a touch of chocolate. The ripeness of the fruit is balanced by fresh fruit acid and soft wood/fruit tannins. The aftertaste is long and lasting.