Holden Manz Merlot Reserve 2016

Excellent overall health and quality of the grapes. Even ripening due very good season leading up to harvest-time. Winter ended on a relatively warm note in August, which resulted in quick growth that was slowed down during a cooler spring. Warm, dry and windy summer conditions resulted in a lower yield and caused an already early season to be even earlier.

We were expecting warmer conditions during early February, but we experienced we experienced cooler weather influences and had no problems with sunburn.

COLOUR

Intense ruby red center.

NOSE

Upfront mulberry, blackberry and dark cherries followed by subtle spice aromas provide an in depth nose with nuances of elegantly integrated wood maturation.

PALATE

Smooth, elegant, sexy and luscious! Expect dark fruits, blueberries, cherries and tobacco on entry support the overall palate of fruit and balanced acidity. Well-structured wine with rich elegant and refined tannin, enticing texture with a long finish.

TECHNICAL DATA

Analysis: Alc: 15.19% • TA: 5.2 g/l • RS: 3.8 g/l • pH: 3.61

 WINEMAKER’S NOTES

Matured for 27 months in 50% new French oak barrels. Hand selected bunches underwent individual berry selection to ensure only the best fruit was fermented. A classic merlot which will continue to develop for the next 7 - 10 years.

FOOD PAIRING

Slow roasted pork belly and strawberry salad with berry and spiced nut dressing.