Ridgemill Estate

2015 RIDGEMILL ESTATE THE CZAR GRANITE BELT SAPERAVI

RRP $45 / 2030

Hand-picked, destemmed, a warm open fermentation with extended post-ferment maceration, matured in new and used American oak. Dense, deep crimson-purple; I was concerned that this would be a monster given its extended maceration. In fact it’s a particularly good saperavi, with almost succulent fruit – an expression I never imagined I would use with this variety. Its tannins are ripe and balanced, the black cherry and plum fruits in perfect harmony. 14% alc

WINEMAKER Peter McGlashan What do you love about aged wine?

There is nothing more rewarding than opening that cellared wine to find the youthful, vibrant, lively characters have mellowed, softened and gained more complex notes – greater depth, texture and tart to more stewed characters.