HOLDEN MANZ

HOLDEN MANZ SHIRAZ 2012

HARVEST

Harvest 2012 promises to be a much talked about vintage in years to come. Wines from 2012 have already developed great color and tannin structure with a close to ideal acid balance. This is mainly due to the fact that the grapes were allowed a long ripening period with few hot spells in February/March and comfortable cool nighttime temperatures. The use of irrigation was also kept to a minimum and in most blocks there was little irrigation during season. This was as a direct result of good rains during the winter and the positive water retention characteristics of our soils.

COLOUR

Bright red edge with a ruby red centre.

NOSE

Reflects plum and delicate aromas. Time spent in the barrel coconut and a slight spiciness. The nose is forward with a medium intensity.

PALATE

Clean and subtle on entry, showing ripe, soft, chewy tannins. Sweet, dark, cherry fruits are supported by the wood tannins, allow the mid-palate length and depth. The wine has a balanced finish which allows it to be enjoyed on its own or to be paired with food.

TECHNICAL DATA

Analysis: Alc: 14.00 % • TA: 5.1 g/l • RS: 2.9 g/l • pH: 3.55

WINEMAKER’S NOTES

Shiraz for the 2012 vintage was carefully hand-picked from different sections in the vineyards which were manicured to produce 6 tons/ha. The grapes were picked at optimal ripeness to get the correct balance between sugar and phenolic components. Grapes were bunch and berry sorted, crushed and destalked to tank. After 3 days of cold soaking at 10°C, alcoholic fermentation was started. The grapes was pressed directly to barrels where malolactic fermentation was completed. The wine was matured in barrel for 22 months: 10% new French oak and 90% 2^nd and 3^rd fill 225L barrels.

FOOD PAIRING

Lamb, slightly spicy food, charcuterie