Glenelly, Estate Reserve 2015

Description

GRAPE VARIETIES

35% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 15% Syrah, 10% Petit Verdot, 10% Cabernet Franc

WINEMAKING

The grapes were hand-sorted and lightly crushed into stainless steel fermentation tanks. They were given a cold soak for three days before allowing the natural fermentation to start.

Three pump overs a day were done on the tanks during fermentation, after which they underwent extended skin contact for 2-3 weeks.

The wine was placed in French oak barrels to undergo malolactic fermentation. Matured for 18 months in French oak and racked, on average, every four months.

FARM INFORMATION

Owned by May de Lencquesaing, former owner of Bordeaux’ Château Pichon-Lalande, Glenelly offers a Bordeaux-inspired structure with fine New World richness.

Glenelly Estate is situated in Idas Valley, Stellenbosch, on the southern slopes of the Simonsberg Mountain. Its origins date back to the 17th century when Simon van der Stel, Governor of the Cape, gave the land to the French Huguenot François Villon in 1682. In 1812 the estate remained in French hands when it passed on to Johan Peter de Villiers.

So … why in 2003 did May de Lencquesaing, then owner of the famous Château Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande purchase the estate? Why after 30 years in the wine business in France would she decide to plant vines in South Africa? Why would an ‘older’ lady invest in this ‘younger’ democracy and start a new adventure?

Because she believes in the soil, the micro climate and the potential for quality wines. Because she believes in continuing the long relationship between the French and winemaking in South Africa going back more than three centuries. And because she believes in South Africa and wishes to play a part in its economic development.

Winemaking at Glenelly is considered an art form and 2009 saw the inauguration, on this 128ha estate, of a winery which is a stellar example of modern methods, design and environmental awareness.

Additional information

Venison, Beef and lamb.