Boschendal Playpen Cabernet Franc 2018

Vintage: 2018 Variety: 100% Cabernet Franc In the Vineyard: These Cabernet Franc grapes are grown in the weathered granite soils in our 15-year-old Stellenbosch based vineyards. Thanks to the crisp ocean breeze that funnels in through the valley, the vines are slow to ripen. The low yield of 5 tons/Ha delivers concentrated, high quality fruit, while good canopy management ensures enough light is allowed to encourage ideal flavour development and ripeness further. The key to Cabernet Franc is texture, and the variety is proving to be particularly well suited to our soils and climate. Vinification: The grapes were hand harvested with bunch selection taking place in the vineyards. The berries were then sorted at arrival at the cellar, ensuring only the highest quality grapes were crushed and left to cold soak on the skins for 2 days. Fermentation took place in open top 300l French barrels and gently hand punched down with 14 days of total skin contact. Extended post-ferment maceration allowed for delicate yet intense extraction. From here, the wine was barrel aged for 15 months in 300l French oak barrels with 20% new oak used. The wine was then blended into 2500L Foudre post fermentation. A total of 3000 bottles were made. Colour: Rich ruby red in colour Aroma: An intricately structured wine with subtle oak and cinnamon spice on the nose which gives way to a basketful of perfumed dark berries and subtle floral complexity. Palate: On the palate, there is rich red fruit and brambles with elegant and fine tannins and an intense finish. Ageing potential: Drinks exceptionally well now, however, it will benefit from cellaring for another 10 years from vintage. Pairing Suggestion: Lovely with red meats and winter stews.