Year

Grand Maitre
2007
General Description:

The Collection of Grand Maitre Wines comes from the private single estate, Ghajn Rihana, with the fruit of each vintage being dedicated to one of the noble Grand Masters of the Sovereign Military Order of Malta. The blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc generally produces very concentrated, full bodied wines of an intense, fruity, aromatic character. The aromas are of intense concentration of a black fruit character showing ripe, integrated, astringent tannins with an animal complexity of tar and leather combined with an oaky spicy character of cinnamon and liquorice. This wine can age further and is also a collector’s item reaching high prices.

Grape Varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon & Cabernet Franc
The Vineyard & Training Systems

Ghajn Rihana estate in Burmarrad. 1.6 hectares of land under vine. Deep alkaline soil with calcareous clay subsoil. Vertical trellis system with permanent cordon training for Cabernet Sauvignon and replacement cane pruning for Cabernet Franc. Controlled drip irrigation 9,000 vines per hectare

Yield, Harvest & Vintage Conditions

6440 kg of grapes harvest

Yield: 25.5 hectolitres per hectare


The 2007 vintage was characterised by exceptionally dry winter and hotter temperature, especially, during the months of January, February and June, relative to previous years. These conditions resulted in a lower than average yield.

Vinification

Destemming, 16 days maceration time, temperature controlled stainless steel fermentation minimum of 14 months of maturation in new french oak barrels

Wine Analysis: Acidity: 5.7 g/l Alcohol: 13.5%
Peak Drinking: 2016 - 2024
Food Matches

 

Roast marinated lamb, mixed grill, char-grilled steak

Tasting Notes:
Cork: Excellent condition
 
App: Clear and bright, narrow medium ruby rim and a deep ruby core. Long legs
 
Nose: Clean, pronounced aromas of a youthful nature of black fruit: black currants, black cherries, ribena, tropical fruit flavours of mangoes and developing undertones of chocolate and mint.
 
Palate: Dry, medium + acidity, full body, elegant, rich ample tannins, pronounced flavours of a black fruit character: black currants, black cherries, blueberries and integrated oak flavours of leather, liquorice and sweet spice. Medium to long finish.
 
Conclusion: A mouthcoating, smooth, fruity but complex wine, In perfect balance with excellent ageing potential showing an exceptional vintage.
 
Already approachable but will keep well for a further 7-8 years.
 
 
 
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