Located just 7 km from the False Bay coastline, the estate benefits from a natural break in the coastal ridge that funnels cool south and southwesterly breezes directly toward the vineyards. These winds play a vital role in moderating summer temperatures, creating an ideal climate for premium viticulture.
The estate spans 40 hectares under vine, established in 2004 with a diverse selection of varietals including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Shiraz, Petit Verdot, Pinotage, Malbec, Sauvignon Blanc, and Chenin Blanc.
Penny Black 2021 is a meticulously crafted blend that harmonizes the distinctive attributes of Shiraz, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, and Chenin Blanc. This wine showcases the art of blending diverse varietals to create a complex, well-balanced, and elegant wine.
Penny Black name refers to the first ever stamp, printed in 1840. This was a British stamp featuring the head of Queen Victoria, was worth one penny and printed in black hence the nick name Penny Black.
Although it is officially the first stamp it is not the rarest stamp as its print run lasted for a decade, so many millions were produced. However there were many color variations and misprints. These individual Penny Blacks have much more value.
Grape Variety
32% Shiraz
27% Cabernet Sauvignon
27% Merlot
7% Petit Verdot
7% Chenin Blanc
Details
Alcohol: 14.0%
Extract:30.3 g/l
Residual Sugar: 2.2 g/l
Total acidity: 5.1 g/l
Total SO2: 98 mg/l
PH: 3,71
Temperature of service: 14-16°C
Consider decanting for an hour before serving to allow the wine to fully express its aromatic profile and soften the palate.
Vinification
The grapes were fermented separately, using natural yeasts from the vineyard. The skins were pushed down 4-8 times during peak fermentation. Malolactic fermentation took place in the barrel where the wine had minimal handling. Use was made of traditional gravity flow and no mechanical pumps were used in the wine
making process. The wines were racked 4 times over a 20-month period. There was no filtration and the sulphur levels were kept to a minimum.
Aging
100% barrel aged in French and American oak barrels.
20% new French and American oak barrels.
24 months in 225 liter barrels.
Tasting Notes
Dark inky black, indicative of the wine’s concentration and depth.
The aromatic profile is rich and multifaceted, featuring floral petals and fynbos—a distinctive South African heath—complemented by blackcurrant, fruitcake, white pepper, and spice. These elements combine to create an enticing and layered bouquet.
The wine enters the palate softly but gains structure as it progresses, culminating in a firm and supple finish. The palate is adorned with rounded tannins and ample fruit, contributing to the wine’s layered complexity.
Long and complex, echoing the spice and fruit flavors while maintaining a refined structure.
Food & Wire Pairing
This versatile blend pairs beautifully with a wide range of dishes. Try it with grilled meats, such as lamb or beef, robust vegetarian dishes, or mature cheeses. The wine’s spice notes also make it a suitable companion for dishes with bold seasoning or a slight sweetness.