Guardian Peak Wines

Guardian Peak Malbec Tannat 2008:

Grape Variety :	Malbec 68% Tannat 32%
Vintage :	2008
Origin :	Wellington/Stellenbosch
Winemakers :	Philip van Staden

Chemical Analysis:	Alcohol :	14.35 vol%
	Acidity :	5.9 g/l
	PH :	3.76
	Res Sugar :	2.8 g/l

Climate :
Mediterranean with the rainfall +- 650mm per annum, the vineyards are located high up on the northern slopes of the Helderberg Mountain. This contribution imparts warmer fruit flavours to the wine. In summer, the vineyards’ close proximity to the Atlantic Ocean result in cool sea breezes that keeps temperatures lower, extending the ripening period.

Soil :
A diverse composition of soil and topography add complexity and an array of different characteristics to the wine.

Vinification / Maturation :
The different clones of Malbec and Tannat were vinified seperately in open top stainless steel fermenters. The combination of punch down and pump overs ensure maximum extraction of grape flavour and tannins. The wine was matured for 18 months in 300 liter French oak barrels, 60% of the oak was new.

This wine :

Appearance : Opaque.

Bouquet : Cassis and ripe dark fruit aromas give way to a lovely classic French oak character. A note of leather and red fruit contributes to the complexity of the nose.

Palate : Red fruit and sherbet flavours follow through on the palate with well integrated grainy tannins. A bold wine showing great structure and length.

Impression :
"This Cahors based blend now in its third vintage is a first for Guardian Peak and South Africa. Slightly more accessible than the 2007, the 2008 will soften and mature beautifully in the next 5 years."

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