This is a pronounced blend of 6 different cultivars, selected from 6 single – barrel components.
A contrasting collection of expressions compared to the Cape Blend 2020.
Where-as the Cape Blend is a convergence of strictly Free Run components, emphasising it’s fruit, this Les Grandes Horisontales Rouge 2020 is an integration of the Press components of the same grapes, with a defined, bolder phenolic structure.
This is an intention to showcase the variation available from the same harvested grapes to express two different wine styles.
1922 bottles produced.
Analyses:
Five of the six cultivars are grown on the South facing slope of the Franschhoek Valley, shaded by it’s peaks for most of the morning. The resulting cooler, less Sunlight-exposed ripening climate carries it’s intention into this red blend.
The natural phenolic profile is the focus. Cooled grapes were fermented and macerated over 3-4 weeks in open fermenters.
The basket-pressed fractions of each cultivar were individually matured in aged 225L French oak barrels for 26 months.
The final blend consists of:
This is an elegant blend that is drinking well in 2025, with an hour or so to breathe uncorked. There is still potential in the bottle for storage 2025 – 2030, but the wine is also made for enjoyment and will evolve over a few hours in the open bottle.