2009 Spice Route Chakalaka

Wine Spectator
"90 pts ... Dark and winey, with lots of sappy kirsch, blackberry and plum sauce notes supported by dark licorice and sweet spice through the finish. Shows nice range and character. Syrah, Mourvèdre, Carignane, Petite Sirah, Grenache and Tannat."

Winemaker's Notes
"37% Syrah, 21% Mourvedre, 18% Carignan, 10% Petite Sirah, 10% Grenache, 4% Tannat. Initial smoky cloves and savoury notes give way to a plum and black cherry nose with hints of sweet oak spice. Medium bodied with well integrated smoke and fruit, this wine has a smooth tannin structure and lingering spice flavours. "

Technical Notes
"The Mourvedre component was matured in 50% American oak and 50% French oak, with all the remaining components going to French oak barriques. 25% new oak was used with the remainder being 2nd to 4th fill. The components spent 15 months in barrel before being lightly filtered and bottled."