BOPLAAS FAMILY RESERVE TOURIGA FRANCESA 2012

With less than 4 hectares planted locally, Touriga Francesa is truly a rare in the Cape, yet particularly prized in for its aromatics & ability to craft of finesse. Previously only reserved for the finest Boplaas Cape Reserve “Ports”, this maiden release is an exceptional glimpse at the potential offered by this Portuguese variety.

Harvested by hand in the cool of the morning from low yielding old vines located a few kilometres from False Bay and hastily trucked back to our cellars, the small bunches were crushed & fermented in temperature controlled open top cement ferementers – called kuipe in Afrikaans or lagars in Portuguese – with manual punch downs to gently coax optimum flavour and colour extraction from the grape skins, while maintaining the bold aromatics. The was matured in 1st and 2nd fill French puncheons for 26 months prior to bottling with a light filtration.

A mere 2600 bottles crafted.

Tasting Notes An inky crimson wine bursts forth with a mélange of macerated black fruits, bright spice, fynbos & undercurrent of ground coco nibs and mint; which are swathed in the reassuring tannins on the medium bodied palate.

Serving suggestions A perfect partner to hearty country cuisine – venison pie, slow roast lamb or warming casseroles; traditional Portuguese fare; fine mature cheese and charcuterie or simply enjoyed around the fireside with friends & family. Decant prior to serving in its youth or confidently cellar for future enjoyment.

Wine analysis Wine of origin: Stellenbosch Cultivars: Touriga Francesa (100%) Total Acid: 6.2 g/l pH: 3.54 Residual sugar: 2.8 g/l Alcohol: 14.13 % Wood aging: 26 months in new & 2nd fill French Oak barrels Maturation potential: Drink now through 2025

Awards Top 10 Red Wines @ CAPPA Challenge 2015 4 stars Platter Wine Guide