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Blackwater

2020

‘Sophie’

Cabernet Franc - Cinsaut   |   Western Cape - South Africa
Shelf Talker Spec Sheet Wine Label Bottle Image

About

‘Sophie’ is a new addition to the stable. She is named after Francois’ daughter born in 2020, joining her older brother ‘Daniel’ in the family lineup. ‘Sophie’ is a reinvention on a Cape classic which traditionally involved Cabernet Sauvignon and Cinsaut; Francois’ preference for Cabernet Franc as a more vivid and brighter wine led to this blend. The Cabernet Franc hails from southern Stellenbosch, receiving those very helpful False Bay breezes. The Cinsaut comes from Darling, which is a district almost entirely surrounded by the Swartland, a bit west of Malmesbury. It’s a much warmer and drier climate here, bringing deep, ripe red fruit flavors to the blend. ‘Sophie’ has already earned acclaim on its maiden release, earning 5 stars from Platter’s Wine Guide.

The grapes were both hand harvested. The Cabernet Franc was entirely destemmed, while up to 70% of the Cinsaut batches were fermented whole-cluster. After 18-26 days on the skins depending on the lot, the batches were pressed to two 50% new 300L French oak barrels for 18 months of maturation. It was bottled with just a dash of sulfur (50 ppm). No fining or filtering.

Stats

  • Grapes: 50% Cabernet Franc - 50% Cinsaut
  • Vineyard: Southern Stellenbosch (Cabernet Franc) - Darling (Cinsaut)
  • Vine Age: Both 18-years-old
  • Soil Type: Various - mostly granite, shale and sandstone-based soils
  • Viticulture: Practicing organic
  • Fermentation: Native – stainless-steel (100% de-stemmed Cabernet Franc - up to 70% whole-cluster Cinsaut)
  • Skin Contact: 18-26 days
  • Aging: 18 months in 50% new 300L French oak
  • Alcohol: 14.2%
  • pH: 3.48
  • Total Acidity: 6.5 g/L
  • Total SO2: 50 ppm
  • Total Production: 67 cases
  • UPC: 6009879826296

Tasting Notes

Raspberry, black currant, and crushed gravel on the nose, which opens slowly to reveal a thread of florals. The palate is brooding, yet opens beautifully to reveal violet, sage, and boysenberry. Black tea-like tannins lead to a grippy texture, and lead to a persistent, intense finish.

Producer


Blackwater

Region


Western Cape

Country


South Africa

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