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.
45,344 kg of grapes harvested.
Yield: 39.2 hectolitres per hectare.
Merlot hand harvested on 30/08/2004. Cabernet Sauvignon & Cabernet Franc hand harvested from 06/09/2004 till 09/09/2004.
The 2004 vintage was characterised by average winter climatic conditions and a particularly cool summer, with the average temperature for July being as much as 3°C lower than the average for the month. This led to a prolonged maturity, giving particularly well structured, balanced wines.
Destemming, 16 days maceration, temperature controlled fermentation. 12 months maturation in new french oak barrels
Stuffed wild duck, grilled lamb with brown sugar glaze, spiced lamb shanks.
Appearance
A quite intense colour displaying a deep ruby core with a hint of garnet on its thin rim.
Nose
Pronounced intensity of developing mature red fruits: maraschino cherries, ripe strawberries, plums and nuances of smoke, cedar wood and charred wood.
Palate
Soft acidity and medium levels of somewhat high but still rough edged tannins. Full body with pronounced fruitiness of soft and mature fruit: over-ripe strawberries and cranberries, tobacco, coffee and a lightly gamey hint.
Conclusion
This wine may benefit from further bottle ageing which should soften the tannins rendering the wine more approachable.