The 2018 Paul Wallace Black Dog Malbec is the tenth vintage made from grapes produced on Wallovale Vineyards. Named after Paul’s dog Jake, but also the Malbec grape is known as the Black Grape and it is this characteristic that has been incorporated into the name. Grapes from three individual blocks were harvested separately on 28 March 2018. Left on the skins post fermentation before being transferred into 225 and 300-litre French oak barriques, where malolactic fermentation took place. The wine spent approximately 18 months in wood with a 20% new wood component. 15% was matured in a concrete egg, contributing towards the fruit driven profile and adding yet another building block to the final compilation. Bottled at 13%. (Bottle size 750ml)

Nose: An intriguing, somewhat exotic nose, conjuring up hints of blueberries, blackberries, blackcurrants and juicy red plums.

Palate: The entry onto the palate is a satisfying fruit-filled mouthful of both red and black fruits linked by a thread of spice and held together with silky tannins.

Finish: Elegant with lingering notes of sweet spices and plums.

Paul and Nicky Wallace purchased their 25-hectare farm in September 2003 and immediately set out to create their own little piece of heaven. Paul is a viticultural consultant and here at last he could practise what he has advised and encouraged other farmers to do in their vineyards. It has long been Paul's belief that the cool-climate region of Elgin, previously best known for its apples and pears, is one of the most exciting developing wine regions within the South African wine industry and indeed internationally.