DeMorgenzon, Maestro Red 2022

Description

DeMorgenzon is a renowned 91-hectare wine estate located in the Stellenbosch region of the Western Cape. Translating to “The Morning Sun” in Afrikaans, it is so named because its high-altitude vineyards are the first in the Stellenboschkloof Valley to see the sunrise. The estate was originally part of Uiterwyk, one of South Africa’s oldest farms dating back to 1679. It was purchased in 2003 by Wendy Appelbaum, a prominent South African businesswoman and philanthropist, and her husband Hylton, who transformed it into its current “garden vineyard” state where abundant wildflowers grow between the vines.  The estate is famous for playing Baroque and early Classical music through speakers in the vineyards and cellars 24/7. Owners Wendy and Hylton Appelbaum believe the sound vibrations improve vine health and fruit development.

TASTING NOTE
The wine boasts an enticing nose with notes of cassis, rich red fruit, dried herbs, and a touch of perfume, complemented by the ripe aroma of plums. On the palate, it is soft and silky, seamlessly integrating flavours of cigar box and black fruit.

CULTIVARS
41% Cabernet Sauvignon, 17% Merlot, 14% Malbec, 13% Syrah, 10% Petit Verdot and 5% Durif

VINEYARDS
Sourced entirely from estate-grown DeMorgenzon grapes in the Stellenbosch Kloof. The vineyards are located on two main soil profiles, namely weathered granite and koffie klip. The resultant wines show focus, poise, and density. Grown on north-facing, lower-lying vineyards are necessary for creating structured, full-bodied wines.

VINTAGE
The 2022 growing season began with a cool, wet winter. Spring brought mild weather and even temperatures, allowing for homogenised bud break. Summer arrived, bringing warm, dry weather, resulting in a great berry concentration and ripening for later picks.

VINIFICATION AND MATURATION
All the grapes used in this blend were meticulously hand-harvested and naturally fermented in stainless steel and concrete tanks. During fermentation, the wine received gentle yet prolonged pump overs to stabilize its dark, rich hue. Malolactic fermentation and maturation occurred in 300L French oak barrels, with up to 25% new oak, for a period of 18 months.

ANALYSIS
Winemaker: Alastair Rimmer
Appellation: Stellenbosch
Alcohol content: 13.64% ABV
TA: 7.2 g/l
pH: 3.28
RS: 2.9 g/l

Additional information

Pair with beef, lamb or pork.