Le BonheurPrima Red Blend 2017 (R89.83 per bottle, 6 bottles)

About

A pioneering, classic Stellenbosch blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc. Medium to full-bodied, exhibiting dense, red fruit and a smooth texture. Harmonious, polished and elegant. 

Grape Varietals

• Merlot (68%), Cabernet Franc (20%) and Cabernet Sauvignon (12%)
• Average age of vines: 28 years

Terroir

Le Bonheur has an enviable terroir, with unmatched diversity. The 163-hectare estate has 71ha planted to vineyards. The vineyards face north, east and south-east, at altitudes from 200m to 400m above sea level. The main soil types are Hutton, Tukulu Glenrosa, Klapmuts and Kroonstad.

Vinification

Grapes were harvested by hand at optimal ripeness. Each vineyard was individually vinified. Once the grapes were crushed, the mash was cooled and fermentation took place over 8 days at 28° C. Upon completion of malolactic fermentation the wine was matured in 300-litre barrels for 18 months, using a combination of 65% new and 35% second-fill French oak.

Maturing

A barrel selection of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc, after 18 months in 300-litre French oak barrels.

Tasting notes

• Appearance: Dark ruby red.
• Nose: Raspberries, black currant and cherries on the nose, with delicate notes of dried herbs.
• Palate: Medium to full-bodied, with a fine-grained tannic structure and a lasting finish. The palate offers complex flavours of cigar tobacco, cherries, pencil shavings and ripe plums. The ideal partner for grilled lamb chops.

Analysis

• Alcohol content: 13.92%
• Acidity: 5.8 g/L
• PH: 3.53
• RS: 2.4g/L