RED WINE- Order now for delivey in February 2009. Pre-order deadline is December 8. We will not charge your card or ship until February 2009.

The Region: North of Cape Town, Swartland is one of the newest growing regions in Sough Africa. Swartland vines are dry-farmed and trained as bushvines. Without irrigation, the grapes pick up all their character from local conditions, strongly focusing the effects of the grapes pick up all their character from local conditions, strongly focusing the effects of regional terroir. Bushvine training reduces vigour and moderates the intense heat of the sun, giving the grapes time to mature slowly and fully.

The Wine: Cabernet from this region is dense, heavy and concentrated with deep blackberry notes, pepper spiciness, delicate mint and herbal aromas, along with abundant tannins that blend wondrfully with many different cuisines.

The Food: Grilled steaks, roasts and other hearty meat-based dishes which can balance the robust character-but try it with dark chocolate for an astonishing taste sensation. Typical of South African Cab, the bold, densely layered tannins will dominate for the first six months, overshadowing the blackcurrant adn blackberry aromas. After this the herbal/mint character will begin to emerge, and will evolve into a deeply complex red wine, with dark cherry and cedar notes. With a year or more aging, the peppery character of the grapes will emerge, counterpointing the concentration and power of the wine, and it will continu to improve for three years- or longer.

Sweetness code: 0 (dry)

Makes 6 US Gallons. Kit includes labels and ingredients. Reserve yours now.