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Cloof’s vineyards are situated on the eastern slopes of Dassenberg, about 70km north of Cape Town, where the baking heat of summer is tempered only by a south-easterly wind.
‘Adversity’ is the key word when it comes to handling the vines
As the decomposed granite in the soil trap the sun’s heat and allows the grapes to ripen slowly at night as it radiates back the heat of the day.
The ‘bush-style’ vines provide a canopy that protects the soil from drying out too much, as well as shading the grapes from the direct sunlight. Their roots go up to eight metres deep in search of moisture, rendering the vines less sensitive to drought. It is this intensity of these conditions that forges the character of Cloof’s wines, as it is in this environment that their fruit ripen to a syrupy sweetness with intensely concentrated flavours. The vineyards experience adversity, but they do so with character, offering up a yield of which Cloof can be immensely proud.
The team at Cloof is of the opinion that there are easier ways of making wine, but strongly believes that under local conditions, bush vines are not only necessary but also integral to the unique style and quality of their wines.
The Cloof Cabernet Sauvignon 1998 has wine has a deep ruby colour. On the nose you will discover a strong vanilla and spiciness combined with coffee, cigar box, fennel and cherries. It is beginning to show wonderful integrated tannins with red berries on the palate. Serve with grills, roasts and casseroles.
Jean’s Thoughts
The wine still shows some lovely berry flavours, as well as a great structure (balance between acidity and sugar). It is mellow and not too tannic which allows it to be enjoyed without food. Welcome to winter, this 98' cab will warm you up!
Brendon’s Thoughts
This is a superb wine that is drinking t its optimum, so with 7 of age on its side, ripe fruits and nicely softened tanins, this is well worth a taste if not a bottle or 3!
At Caveau:
R120.00 per bottle
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