Tasting notes
White pepper, coriander spices on the nose from dominant Shiraz percentage. These spices are accompanied by red berry aromas from the Pinotage grape. The Bordeaux partners used lend structure, finesse and longevity to the blend.

Decanting & Serving temperature
To release all flavours and to allow to breathe, please decant 1 hour before consumption. Recommended to be served  at optimal temperature of 18 ºC.

Cultivars
Shiraz [35%]; Pinotage [25%]; Cabernet Sauvignon [21%];
Merlot [12%]; Cabernet Franc [7%]

Analysis
Alcohol: 14.5%
Sugar: 2.9 g/l
Acidity: 5.9 g/l
pH: 3.47

Harvest dates
Shiraz: 27 February 2003; Pinotage: 6 February 2003;
Cabernet Sauvignon: 20 February 2003; Merlot: 5 February 2003;
Cabernet Franc: 26 February 2003

Vinification & Maturation details
Hand picked in the cool of the night to retain freshness and flavours. 48 Hours cold maceration (10 ºC) prior to fermentation. MLF took place in barrels. These wines matured separately for 20 months in 70% new and 30% 2nd fill French oak barrels.

Bottling date - December 2005
Production - 520 x 6
Ageing potential - 15 Years

Release date
Elegance, finesse and concentrated fruit reflecting the true character of the cultivar from our soils are the hallmarks of Rijk's Private Cellar wines. This wine was aged in the bottle for 3 years. After many tastings and discussions it was only released in February 2009.