Glen Carlou, Gravel Quarry Cabernet Sauvignon 2022

Description

Glen Carlou is situated in the Simonsberg-Paarl region of South Africa’s Western Cape. Our vineyard blocks encompass a variety of slopes and aspects – each is nurtured according to its own unique potential, respecting the natural cycles of the vines. Our 145 hectare property transferred back to local ownership when in 2016, Glen Carlou was purchased by a South African family consortium.

Significant investments have been made for the vineyard replanting programme, one of several initiatives implemented since the change in ownership. Robust drought resistant rootstocks and new clones are being planted to increase the hectares under vine.

The rich tapestries of passionate people interwoven with insightful custodians have shaped and continue to develop Glen Carlou. A splendid storyline supports our desirable international reputation of being a trusted, highly awarded and respected wine brand.

In the heart of our estate lies a vineyard of notable distinction—the revered Gravel Quarry, known for producing some of the finest Cabernet Sauvignon in the region.

IN THE VINEYARD
This wine is crafted from a selection of top Cabernet Sauvignon vineyards, including sites established on the grounds of a rehabilitated quarry. These vines are drip-irrigated and trained on a 5-wire Perold trellis, rooted in well-drained, stony soils. Despite preceding dry seasons, the vineyards performed well, and the resulting wine shows depth, balance and concentration.

IN THE CELLAR
A natural fermentation was employed to reinforce the minimal intervention approach from vineyard to cellar. Whole bunches were first sorted, followed by meticulous hand-sorting of individual berries. Free-run and press fractions were kept separate, with only juice meeting strict quality standards transferred to new 225L French oak barriques for 24 months of maturation.

TASTING NOTES
“This structured Cabernet Sauvignon is a powerful yet polished expression of one of the world’s most revered noble varietals. Deep layers of ripe blackcurrant, dark berry
compote, mint and subtle dark chocolate unfold on the nose. The palate is full-bodied and firm, with concentrated fruit and fine, integrated tannins that promise graceful aging. A serious, age-worthy wine rooted in the granitic slopes of the Simonsberg -timeless and commanding.” Johnnie Calitz – Winemaker

ANALYSIS
Alc. 14% | R.S. 3.8 g/l | T.A. 6.5 g/l | pH 3.53

Additional information