The wine has a deep, dark colour. Flavours of blackberry & mulberry greet you on the nose along with tea leaf undertones . The palate is distinguished and complex with a refreshing acidity supported by soft, smooth tannins. The flavours from the nose follow through to the juicy palate along with flavours of cassis. These fresh, fruity flavours will linger on the palate and slowly fade away.
The Dome Ethel 2016
R210.00
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Harvest Description
It was the driest year in 100 years of recorded history as we only received half of the normal average rainfall per year. This was followed by one of the hottest and driest summers in history. Budding started about one week earlier and we did not have severe South Easter winds at the start of summer. This resulted in very good budding and flowering of the vines. The drought and high summer temperatures resulted in much faster ripening and the earliest recorded harvest dates in history on Lourensford as well as the shortest harvest ever. The vines were generally very healthy and in good balance and harmony and where needed we could give them water by drip irrigation. The berries in general were smaller and more concentrated. With good canopy management and perfect harvest decisions we were able to bring the grapes in at just the desired time. This resulted in refined wines with elegance and slightly lower than normal alcohol levels compared to other vintages.
In The Vineyard
Altitude: 168-200m above sea level, and close to the Lourens River.
Age of vines: 14-15 years
Rootstock: 101-14 Mgt
Clones: CS46, MO347
Slopes: Situated on South-West facing slopes
Analysis
Alcohol: 14.5 vol %
pH: 3.51
Total acid: 5.9 g/l
RS: 3.0 g/l
Closure: Hand selected quality cork
Wine Information
Cultivar: 87% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Merlot
Wood: Matured for 19 months in French oak barrels of which 27% was new. Only the finest barrels were selected.
Maturation Potential
This vintage can be enjoyed up to 2021.
Food Pairing
The Dome Ethel 2016 pairs exceptionally well with grilled or barbequed lamb, beef, kudu, ostrich and springbok. Our Bordeaux blend tends to not go well with acidic foods and mild to strong blue veined cheeses which can overwhelm the fruit flavours of this beautiful wine. Serve between 16 and 18 ° C for the best results.
