Catharina Red Blend 2018, Steenberg

Steenberg flagship red, the Catharina is blended from only the best barrels from each vintage. Each cultivar is vinified and aged separately in a traditional red wine making style.  The 2018 Bordeaux-style blend composition (50% Merlot, 36% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Malbec and 6% Petit Verdot) is bold yet suave, forthright yet subtle, assured and alluring. It displays volumes of basil and cedar, cassis and lavender blossom, cinnamon stick and dark chocolate. Layers of concentrated red and black fruit (raspberry, blackcurrant and black cherry) show on both the nose and the palate, accented with a full, smooth texture from the Cabernet Sauvignon component. Light herbal notes from the Merlot lend a refreshing finish, while the Malbec and Petit Verdot round out the blend, adding structure and depth.

Food pairing: Dark fruit and spice, lifting acidity and an encompassing tannic finish create the optimal pairing for most red meat (particularly a garlic and rosemary stuffed roast lamb shoulder) or rich saucy dishes.

Ageing potential: Will bottle age well for 7 to 10 years after bottling.

Alcohol: 13.97% ABV

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