The Garland 2022 presents an alluring dark crimson hue that hints at its depth and complexity. On the nose, it opens with enticing aromas of fresh wild berries, blackcurrant and mulberry, interwoven with layers of baking spices like cardamom and cinnamon. A subtle cigar box note adds a hint of smokiness, enriching the wine’s aromatic profile. As it unfolds on the palate, the wine reveals its intricate structure, with flavours seamlessly transitioning from ripe berries to a warm, spiced undertone. The tannins are delicate and finely integrated, providing a refined mouthfeel that enhances the wine’s elegance. Each sip showcases its nuanced layers, balanced by a sophisticated finish that lingers with a touch of spiciness and earthiness.
The Garland is crafted with meticulous care, starting with hand-selection of the finest grapes from a single vineyard site situated high up on the slopes of the Simonsberg to ensure only the finest quality grapes are used. After a two-day cold soak, fermentation begins with cultured Bordeaux yeast, and gentle pump-overs and aeration ensure smooth extraction. The wine ferments at a controlled temperature, peaking at 28°C, before undergoing 21 days of maceration on the skins. It matures for 20 months in new French oak barriques, with three racking’s to fine-tune tannin integration. Tasted daily, the wine is carefully monitored until the winemaker determines it's ready for bottling, ensuring a Cabernet Sauvignon of exceptional depth and balance.
In the vineyard
Nestled high on the slopes of the Simonsberg mountain, the vineyard thrives in deep, well-drained decomposed granite soils, where the altitude and unique microclimate create a rarefied environment. This distinctive terroir, shaped by ancient geological forces, offers a perfect balance of sunlight, temperature, and soil composition, resulting in a landscape that is both rugged and refined.
Vintage Description:
The 2019 winter brought much-needed rainfall and rising dam levels, ensuring ample water for the vineyards and setting the stage for an excellent growing season. Early signs were promising, with even bud break and abundant flowering bunches, although some wind during flowering and December rains required careful vineyard management. The season proceeded with moderate temperatures and dry weather, leading to an outstanding harvest on March 18, 2020. The grapes, healthy and perfectly ripe, produced a Cabernet Sauvignon of exceptional quality, with optimal tannin maturity and above-average yields, setting the foundation for the Garland 2020.
Ageing
20 months
Cultivar
Cabernet Sauvignon
Food Pairing
This wine pairs beautifully with a rich grilled ribeye steak, its robust flavors complementing the tender braised short ribs, while the earthy depth of wild mushroom risotto adds an elegant balance. A selection of aged cheeses further elevates the experience, enhancing the wine’s complexity and depth.
