Mary le Bow

Kenneth Frater wanted to grow beautifully balanced vines in a spectacular, secluded mountain Kloof. This kloof was blessed with rich, well-drained ancient soils. High up into the brooding mountain, the climate is characterised by biting, cold winters and sun-downer inducing summers.

He wanted to make a wine that reflected this compelling beauty, while effortlessly displaying the hallmarks of the great wines (many of them European) he had enjoyed throughout his remarkable life. He dreamed of a wine that almost trembled with power, but never needed to flex its muscle to be enjoyed.

The Grapes were harvested at optimum ripeness, destemmed onto a sorting table where green berries, leaves and stems were removed. 30% of the grapes were slightly crushed. The grapes were then cold macerated for 2 weeks. They were then inoculated, fermented between 25 & 27 degrees Celsius with soft punch downs every 4 hrs. The wine aged predominantly in French Oak, with about 30% new wood for 16 months.

Tasting description 2006

A warm rich red in glass. Beautiful complex nose of blackcurrant, cassis, mulberry fruits, buchu and juniper, which follow through to the palate. Layer upon layer of flavour reveals rich mulberry, cassis and mocha flavours. Pure elegance and sophistication.

Vintage

2005

Grape varieties

Shiraz – 50%
Merlot – 32%
Cabernet Sauvignon – 18%

“Wine of Origin”

Western Cape, South Africa

Producer

Flagstone Winery

Winemaker

Bruce Jack

Closure

Natural Cork

Residual Sugar

2.2g/l

Alcohol

13.85%