Variety 63% Cabernet Sauvignon & 37% Syrah
Vineyards The Helderberg region of Stellenbosch is recognised for its exceptional fruit quality, due to the maritime influence bought about by proximity to False Bay, where fresh southern ocean breezes cool the vines throughout the hot summer. Soils at Anwilka are medium potential, allowing favourably low vine vigour.; the gentle slope assists drainage during winter rains, whilst sufficient water retention capacity avoids hydric stress
Winemaking Winemaking techniques at Anwilka have been fine-tuned by Prats and de Boüard, who visit during harvest. Winemaker Trizanne Pansegrouw utilises these techniques, which include long pumpovers and extended post-fermentation maceration, to ensure very gentle extraction of ripe polyphenols. Close attention is paid to the date of harvest of each vineyard block, with each tank being treated individually with very much a hands-on approach.
Tasting Notes
Colour: deep ruby core, with youthful ruby-pink rim.
Nose: fresh, well-ripened red berry fruit aromas combine with roasted spices, crushed black pepper and toasty oak aromas.
Palate: distinctive freshness and elegance, with ample, mouthfilling blackcurrant fruit and cinnamon flavours. Ripe tannins, in perfect balance with fruit, acid and alcohol, impart sufficient structure and supple texture. Good length, with a positively clean and flavourful finish.
Potential: Approachable now, but will develop well, and keep next 8-10 years.
Analysis Alc: 14%
TA: 4.98
ph: 3.79
RS: <2.5g/l
Robert Parker has tasted this wine and his comments were as follows:
"Fabulous...this is the finest red wine I have ever had from South Africa...This debut release, the 2005,a blend of 37% syrah and the balance cabernet sauvignon,is world class stuff, exceptional wine...."
