During fermentation the temperature is regulated between 25-28C and the cap regularly wetted by the traditional method of pushing the skins down into the must manually every two hours. This together with pumping-over of the must onto the skins allows the colour and flavour to be extracted very effectively. It normally takes about five days to ferment dry and is then left on the skins for another five days before racking and pressing. After malolactic fermentation starts the wine is transferred to 300 liter French oak barrels where it is left to mature for a minimum of 12 months
Rietvallei Cabernet Sauvignon
This is a full-bodied wine with a deep, almost black colour. Lots of red and black fruit flavours infused with cherry and cassis and hints of coffee on the nose. These flavours follow through on the palate together with black current and dark chocolate, ending with a noticeable toastiness, a touch of vanilla and soft juicy tannins.