Asara Merlot 2003

This well matured Merlot displays the distinctive characteristics of the Merlot grape.

Ripe blackberry and cassis flavours from mature grapes were carefully nurtured in French oak for 18 months. On the palate there is structure, elegance and mouthfilling fruit with hints of white chocolate cedar wood and mint.

Time of harvest was determined by analysis as well as tasting the grape skins and seeds for optimal maturity. A cold maceration of 48 hours prior to alcoholic fermentation with selected yeast strains was key in producing great Merlot. The fermentation lasted for two weeks at temperatures of 25 to 29¢ªC. Pumpovers by rack and return occurred regularly during the first two weeks to ensure full extraction of flavour and ripe tannins. Secondary malolactic fermentation took place in stainless steel tanks the matured in French oak casks for 18 months. The wine was stabilised and lightly filtered before bottling in December 2005.