2024 Tribute 'Lord Sam' Cabernet Sauvignon

THE WINE

A medium bodied Cabernet of bramble, black berry, currants, dark chocolate and dried herbs.  The ripe fruit provides a warmth and richness to the palate, and the flow of the fine tannins are supportive and run the length of this wine.  This is Cabernet that may be enjoyed now but will reward cellaring.

THE VINTAGE

A relatively mild growing season with average temperatures supporting slow, even ripening. An early February vintage start with warm conditions allowing for a short sharp picking window. The grapes have shown an excellent balance and are set to produce wines with vibrant fruit character of high quality, with potential for aging and development.

 VITICULTURE + WINEMAKING

This wine is a blend of clones, producing this powerful yet refined wine. Harvested from the low laying block E SA125 clone, and block F WA Cape and 412 clones taken from upon the north-west facing hill. Winemaking is very traditional in the winery, without intervention, as the fruit is the king.  Fermented in open pots, the fruit is treated as the hero.  Gentle pump overs and some hand plunging ensure consistent fermentation temperature and tannin extraction.  Pressed on dryness and racked to small French oak barrels for a 14-month maturation, before racking to tank for 3 months maturation, and finally bottling.

FOOD MATCH

Lamb cutlets cooked over fire, brushed by rosemary soaked in olive oil.

TECHNICAL DETAILS

Varietal composition: 100% Cabernet Sauvignon

Alcohol: 13.0%

TA: 6.4

pH: 3.66

Cellaring: Now - 2030