Vinbeskrivelse
Eagles’ Nest Merlot 2014
Production:
The grapes for this wine were the fifth and sixth vintage off nine and ten year old vines. The vineyard aspects range from east to north, and are perfectly positioned for these Bordeaux varieties. All grapes were hand picked, de-stalked and crushed into medium sized open top fermenters. Punch-downs and pump-overs were performed three to four times per day, these practices being determined by twice daily tastings by the winemaker. This ensured that at all times the fermenting must evolved to embody the desired style. The fermentation temperature was controlled between 24 and 30 degrees Celsius. Fermentation took 9 days to complete, after which the free run wine was drawn off and the skins were pressed in a 3.5 ton pneumatic bag press. The wine was then racked into first, second and third fills barrels where malo-lactic fermentation took place. Six different cooperages were used, each specifically chosen to complement the different nuances of this very complex wine. During maturation, the wine was racked twice. After 16 months in barrel selected barrels were racked to tank and blended to create a harmonious finished product. A light filtration preceded bottling in February 2013.
Description:
This 2012 vintage shows a touch more complexity than its predecessors, taking full advantage of more mature vines. Meticulous attention in the vineyard and cellar combine to produce a wine that’s nose is a textured array if gorgeous ripe berry fruit, complemented by nuanced baking spice and crushed pepper. The fruit is vibrant, complex and pleasantly focused by bright acidity. On the palate the delicious dark berry fruit of the nose is carried through to the taste buds and they combine harmoniously to give a rewarding taste sensation. Flavours are supported by juicy tannins and extend into a persistent aftertase. The is ready to drink now and will improve with correct cellaring up to 2023.
Wine Analysis:
Alcohol: 14.00 vol% Sugar: 2.9 g/l TA: 5.2 g/l PH: 3.53
