Spy Valley Merlot / Malbec 2008

Region

Marlborough

Vineyards

Johnson Estate, Outpost

Variety

72% Merlot 23% Malbec 5% Cabernet Sauvignon

Harvest Date

10-13 April 2008

Brix at Harvest

23.8-25 °Brix

Viticulturalist

Adam McCone

Soils

Shallow and stony soils with overlying sandy loam. North facing slope with gravel bound clay.

Winemakers

Paul Bourgeois, Brie Hughes, Kathy-Lee Sowman

Winemaking

Our Merlot, Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon blocks were hand harvested and gently crushed prior to a 'wild' fermentation. After ferment the tanks were pressed to 40% new French oak barrels, and were matured in these for 14 months prior to blending. Bottled with minimal filtration.

Colour

Dark Plum

Bouquet

Dark berry fruits, chocolate, spice and dried herbs with a subtle floral note.

Palate

Firm and fresh, the structure has good length and a pleasing mix of red fruit, savoury and earthy flavours.

Release Date

March 2010

Cellaring

3-5 Years