Babylonstoren Nebukadnesar Red Wine 2022, Simonsberg-Paarl, South Africa

“Our wines are a combination of the very essence of Babylonstoren- keeping things simple and as true to the earth as possible. Truth to the area we are situated in on the slopes of Simonsberg, and simplicity by making elegant and balanced wines as natural as possible.” Area of Production: On the slopes of the Simonsberg Mountain between the wine-growing areas of Franschhoek, Stellenbosch and Paarl, Western Cape, South Africa. Soil: Combination of Klapmuts/Longlands type soils of Malmesbury shale origin as well as Oakleaf and Hutton type soils of Cape granite origin. Vinification: All the wines were made separately and matured in 85% first-fill and 15% second- and third-fill French oak barrels for 23 months. The blend was then made up and left in a tank to marry for a month before being bottled and matured for five months prior to release. Taste: The velvety tannins produce ripples of sappy freshness and bring texture and context to the fruit; sleek, supple and sinuous. This opulent wine befits its royal name and has all the attributes of greatness. 2022 vintage: 45% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, 5% Petit Verdot, 15% Cabernet Franc and 10% Malbec. Fragrances of thyme and violets, blackcurrants and cigar box. Full bodied with excellent balance.