Holden Manz Big G 2016

HARVEST

Harvest 2012 promises to be a much talked about vintage in years to come. Wines from 2012 have already developed great color and tannin structure with a close to ideal acid balance. This is mainly due to the fact that the grapes were allowed a long ripening period with few hot spells in February/March and comfortable, cool nighttime temperatures. The use of irrigation was also kept to a minimum and in most blocks there was little irrigation during growing season. This was as a direct result of good rains during the winter and the positive water retention characteristics of our lower level soils.

COLOUR

Intense, concentrated, red center turning into a ruby, red edge.

NOSE

Strong explosion of black cherry, cassis and strawberry fruit and chocolate flavours, backed by hints of cigar box. Strong black pepper and spice also present in the bouquet.

PALATE

Elegant yet fully bodied with a firm, ripe tannin structure backed by a well-layered graphite finish. Mid palate is full of dark fruit with long and lingering flavours.

The individual varieties were handpicked and sorted allowing only the best berries to be used in making the Big G. Separate batches underwent malolactic fermentation in 30% new and 70% old French oak barrels after which the wines were aged for a further 18 months in the same barrels. After a total of 23 months ageing, only barrels with a certain level of quality were selected. The result is a full bodied, structured and balanced Bordeaux Blend. 

AGEING

This full and balanced structure ensures excellent ageing potential of up to 10 years.

FOOD PAIRING

Beef entrecote grilled over vine coals and served with tartiflette – finished with a fine béarnaise. Oven roasted quail dressed with Parma ham and stuffed with star anise and couscous – sauced liberally with Holden Manz Good Sport Cape Vintage 2010. Slow braised beef short ribs with roasted parsnip puree enriched with butter, cream and touch of nutmeg.

AWARDS

4 Stars | Platter 2016

87 Points | Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate

Bronze | 2016 Decanter World Wine Awards

Bronze | Old Mutual Trophy Wine Show 2016