Clairault Claddagh Reserve 1999
Blend
50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Cabernet Franc, 25% Merlot
Tasting Notes
The colour is deep red with brick hues. Hauntingly complex aromas of plum, molasses and dark berry intertwined with earthy, cigar box, truffley characters. Nuances of spices become apparent as the wine opens in the glass and the layers of complexity evolve. The palate continues to unfold layers of sweet fruit with hints of black olive and bitter chocolate. Chewy tannins grip the palate before tapering off to a fine persistent finish.
Will Shields’ Winemaking Notes
Known affectionately as “The Claddagh”, our Reserve is made exclusively from the original 1976 dry grown Estate plantings of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. This is the mother of all wines. 1999 was a text book growing season. Everything came into the winery perfectly ripened, in pristine condition, showing balance with robust flavours and textures. Batches were fermented separately in 4 tonne open fermenters with fruit left on skins for 4 weeks. The implementation of frequent rack and returns during the cool ferment allowed a more controlled extraction of tannins, flavours and colour. The wine was then matured in a mixture of old and new French oak barriques for 24 months before final blending and bottling. This wine will improve significantly with age and if opened prior to ten years will benefit from decanting.
