Marnisi estate in Marsaxlokk. 8.1 hectares of land under vine. Shallow terrarossa soil. Vertical trellis system with guyot training for Cabernet, Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot and replacement cane pruning for Cabernet Franc. Controlled drip irrigation 6,250 vines per hectare.
60,435 kg of grapes harvested.
Yield: 52 hectolitres per hectare.
Merlot hand harvested on 20/08/1999.
Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc & Petit Verdot hand harvested from 30/08/1999 till 31/08/1999.
1999 was characterised by a very hot summer which resulted in a reduced yield, which was particularly notable in the Grand Maitre vineyard.
Destemming, 14 days maceration, temperature controlled fermentation. Minimum of 12 months maturation in new french oak barrels
Braised lamb shanks, steak and kidney pie, seared roast beef salad
Appearance
Moderate intensity with a medium ruby core and a tawny rim.
Nose
Medium intense developing aromas of soft and ripe black fruit: black currants and blackberries with complex aromas of oak, spice, black pepper, liquorice and a mineral earthy hint.
Palate
The wine has a medium level of acidity with plentiful soft and rounded tannins. It is a full bodied wine with intense fruit characteristics of a black fruit nature balanced by mineral hints of smokiness and generous alcohol giving the wine a pleasurable long finish.
Conclusion
This complex terroir-driven wine is well-balanced with good levels of acidity, persistent fruit and defined tertiary aromas. It is ready to drink now but can further improve for another 3-4 years.