Description
Vineyard
The Spice Route Malabar 2006 comes from hand-selected fruit grown in Swartland’s dryland vineyards. Syrah thrives on trellised vines planted in 1995 on oakleaf and koffieklip soils. Mourvèdre, introduced in 2001, grows mainly on oakleaf soils. Petite Sirah comes from South Africa’s first block of this variety, planted in 2001. Grenache is harvested from 55-year-old bushvines rooted in sandy decomposed granite, while Tannat, planted in 2003, also flourishes on koffieklip soils. Together, these vineyards bring richness, complexity, and depth to the blend.
Winemaking
The team harvested the grapes by hand in the early mornings and sorted them carefully. After crushing, they fermented the berries in open 1800kg French oak vats. Each varietal matured separately in French oak for 14 months before barrel selection. Only the finest barrels were blended and returned to oak for another 12 months. Finally, the wine was bottled without fining or filtration. In total, the 2006 vintage produced 225 barrels, highlighting the cellar’s dedication to detail.
Tasting Notes
The Spice Route Malabar 2006 shows layers of ripe blackberry, plum, cocoa, and violet. On the palate, rich fruit and spice unfold with energy, supported by elegant tannins and balanced structure. As a result, the wine offers both power and finesse, finishing long and refined.
Cellar Potential
Malabar 2006 impressed from its release and continues to age gracefully. With careful cellaring, it will show depth and refinement for many more years.
Harvest Date
March 2006.
