1999 Orlando Jacob's Creek Shiraz Cabernet

Notes sourced from Orlando Wines.

Good winter rains across Southern Australia provided excellent soil moisture reserves for Spring vine growth and grape berry development. Warm to hot conditions leading up to harvest accelerated grape maturation and resulted in an early start to vintage. Early seasonal rain in March caused some trepidation however diligent vineyard monitoring and crop protection strategies allowed fruit to ripen to maturity with the rich berry flavour and supple tannins required for Jacob's Creek Shiraz Cabernet.

The timing of harvest for individual vineyards was determined in the field when grape berry flavour was optimised. Grapes were destemmed and crushed to both static and rotary fermenters. The ferments remained on skins for an average of six days with temperatures maintained at 20 to 25ºC. Static fermenters were pumped over twice daily to extract colour and tannins. Rotary fermenters were turned regularly to facilitate extraction. Ferments were generally drained and pressed offbefore the completion of fermentation to preserve fruit intensity and freshness. After clarification, pressings were returned to the free run wines providing robust structure and balance. The base wines were matured for over twelve months prior to blending, clarification and bottling.

TASTING NOTES:
Deep crimson red colour with purple hues. The nose displays intense plum and red berry, dark cherry notes and subtle cedar oak complexity. Generously flavoured palate with rich cherry / berry character and hints of toasty vanillin oak. Medium bodied with supple, mouth-filling tannins and a soft balanced finish.