A Timeless Cabernet Franc & Merlot Expression

Step into the refinement of our Spirit of Marlborough, a distinguished Cabernet Franc and Merlot blend that has matured beautifully over time. With years of careful aging, this exceptional vintage has developed remarkable complexity and depth.

Now, as it continues to evolve, this library wine presents a rare chance to savour a truly refined expression of craftsmanship, an unmissable treasure for the discerning connoisseur.

Vintage 2008

2008 was a relatively hot season and favourable for these late ripening grape varieties. We picked the grapes in the first week of April at a tiny yield of 500g per vine (one bunch per shoot).

Hans’ Winemaking Comments

The lure of producing this wine is what brought us to Marlborough. The sandy and gravelly soils of our vineyard are 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.

Extended maceration time and a long natural fermentation extracted 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.

TastingNotes

Surprisingly for the age, the wine shows off with aromas of juicy dark plums, black fruits and berries. Subtle spices, herbs and dark chocolate add to the complexity. This wine offers the unique combination of concentration, opulence and a great silky, velvety depth. A sensuous, lingering long finish completes this elegant wine. We want you to enjoy his stately flagship wine at its full potential and like a Grand Cru Pomerol that means many years of bottle ageing which we did under perfect condition in our barrel hall but without the heavy price tag!

Technical Data

Varieties

50% Merlot, 50% Cabernet Franc

Soil

Shallow (<45cm) stony, gravel and sandy soil. Well drained, developed from stony alluvium.

Planting Density

5,500 vines/ha

Yield

2t/ha

Vine planted

1996

Alcohol

14%

Residual Sugar

<1g/L

Ageing Potential

>15 years+