Wines

Haan Classic Blend Merlot Cabernet Franc should be drunk on the knees with the head bared

2008 Haan Classic Blend Merlot Cabernet Franc

PHILOSOPHY

The Haan philosophy was established right at the beginning with Hanenhof Vineyards being managed as a true wine estate

Providing the best possible conditions in both vineyard and winery has been the key to success to which must be added the clear understanding of wine excellence. As such then the Haan Wines show distinct varietal Character and classical style.

In keeping with the Haan philosophy there has come the ability to blend Classic varieties to achieve a wine that shows the strength and grace typical of upper echelon wine.

VITICULTURE

The Merlot and Cabernet Franc chosen from our vineyard are grown in sandy loam soil on a vertical trellis system with movable foliage wires to expose the fruit to the sun for maximum development of flavour and character.

WINEMAKING

Both of these varieties are processed separately and only after 8 months in wood are individual barrels selected for this blend.

Merlot and Cabernet Franc are hand picked and fermented in fermenters which are plunged 3 times per day to ensure maximum flavour extraction. The ferment temperature is allowed to rise to 28°C and the wine remains in contact with the skins for 7 days.

The essence of the Classic Blend range is the abundance of fruit flavours. A softer oak regime is used to enhance this character. Only 20% of new oak is used in this blend, with the balance being 2-3 year old French oak. The wine is matured in oak for only 12 months before bottling.

TASTING NOTES

A very intense bouquet of spice, liquorice and cassis are evident which are complimented by touches of plums and cedar wood.

A precise and powerful expression of dark berry fruits from the Merlot is well balanced with the subtle savouriness of the Cabernet Franc. This harmonious blend gives wonderful length of flavour with fine integrated tannins to give longevity.

AGEING

Whilst created to enjoy now, this wine has the potential to develop further with more bottle age. We expect it to show well around 4–6 years.

AVAILABLE

In cartons of one dozen 750ml bottles