A Rare Opportunity to Taste a Timeless Masterpiece

The 2011 Spirit of Marlborough offers a unique chance to experience an exceptional Cabernet Franc and Merlot blend that has gracefully matured in our cellars. While our older vintages continue to evolve in complexity, this 2011 is a rare gem in its own right, showcasing the remarkable balance and depth that only time can impart. With a limited number of bottles available, this library wine invites you to savour the craftsmanship and enduring quality of a vintage that stands as a testament to our dedication to creating wines of distinction. A special opportunity for collectors and connoisseurs alike to enjoy a piece of our winemaking history.

Vintage 2011

After a perfect, long dry autumn we handpicked a tiny yield of 600g/vine of healthy, physiologically ripe Cabernet Franc and Merlot grapes in harmony with our low yield/highest quality philosophy. The vines grow on the sandy, gravelly soils of our vineyard, akin to those of the Pomerol region. Both climates are moderated by their proximity to the Ocean and the presence of rivers yielding wines of exclusive velvety quality best after 10 years of ageing.

Hans’ Winemaking Comments

The grapes enjoyed a long maceration time and progressed into a natural wild fermentation to extract the beautiful flavours. Malolactic fermentation followed in partly new French barriques where the wine matured for a total of 30 month. Unfined and unfiltered. Natural sediments may show.

Original Tasting Note

The 2011 Spirit reveals vibrant blackberries, cassis, blackcurrants with touches of cigar box and dark chocolate. Delicately crafted with nuanced, quietly intense layers of vivacious black fruits, the palate features a solid frame of polished, rounded tannins and seamless freshness, finishing long and minerally. This sophisticated power house offers superb precision and opulence, yet is immensely elegant. Juicy on the palate with a huge long finish, this one is made to last forever. A regal wine like the a true king!

Technical Data

Varieties 50% Merlot, 50% Cabernet Franc Rootstock Cabernet Franc – 3309/101.14 Merlot -101.14 / 5BB / Riparia Gloire Vines Planted 1996 Soil Shallow (<45cm) stony, gravel and sandy soil. Well drained, developed from stony alluvium. Planting Density 5,500 vines/ha Yield <2t/ha Alcohol 14% Residual Sugar <1g/L Ageing Potential 20+ years (if kept at optimum temperature – <14 Celsius degrees) Bottles Produced 1,152

Food Matching Suggestions

Perfect for meat lovers, pair with steak, lamb and strong hard cheeses, such as Gruyere.