Neethlingshof Estate Short Story Collection Caracal

Wine information: The Neethlingshof estate in Stellenbosch takes its name from its 19th century owner, Marthinus Laurentius Neethling, who served as mayor of Stellenbosch and was a member of the Cape Parliament. A member of the Biodiversity & Wine Initiative, acknowledged for its protection of indigenous habitat, the 378 ha winery has set aside 127 ha for conservation. It cultivates both red and white varietals, with the bias marginally in favour of whites. The major red varietals are Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Malbec and Pinotage. The predominant soil types found on the farm are Oakleaf and Tukulu. This Cabernet Sauvignon-dominated blend, that includes Merlot and Cabernet Franc, was previously labeled Laurentius. It is now named The Caracal, to celebrate the return of the rooikat (African lynx) to Neethlingshof since the start of its programme two years ago to conserve and rehabilitate areas of indigenous habitat, particularly the unique ecosystems surrounding the estate's granite hills. Rooikatte are now also breeding on Neethlingshof. The blend is 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 21% Merlot and 9% Cabernet Franc. After hand-harvesting, fermentation and malolactic fermentation the wine was matured in a combination of 300 litre new, second-fill French oak and about 10% American oak barrels, for a period of 16 months, before fining and bottling. The Neethlingshof Caracal is a dark, intense red colour with aromas of plum, blackcurrant and cherry aromas supported by oak, cedar and vanilla notes. It is a full-bodied, muscular and smooth wine with prune and blackcurrant flavours and firm but supple tannins. Excellent served with steak, oxtail, beef stroganoff, roasts, casseroles, stews, game, charcuterie and mature cheeses.

 
     

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