Grapes for the Saxenburg Private Collection Pinotage 2000 were harvested at physiological ripeness from vineyards planted predominately on weathered Table Mountain sandstone on a West facing slope. Destemmed and fermented in open-top tanks with thorough temperature control and 3 punch-downs and pump-overs daily, ensuring a soft extraction. Pressed off the skins early to prevent bitterness. Matured in a combination of 300-litre American and French oak barrels for 12 months with no racking or fining. Bottled at 14%. (Bottle size 750ml)

Nose: Surprisingly lovely dark fruit characters are still showing, prunes and blackberries in particular. A lovely tertiary savoury earthy aroma of tobacco and a hint of vanilla.

Palate: Elegant and lush on the palate. Very soft with notes of dates and prunes showing. Sweet spices on the mid-palate, cinnamon, and allspice come through beautifully.

Finish: Long with persistent flavours of vanilla, cedar and allspice.