Miles Mossop Wines, The Introduction Red 2019

Until May 2018, Miles Mossop’s day job was as winemaker at Tokara, a position he had held since the winery started-up in 2000. The agreement Miles had with GT Ferreira, the owner of Tokara, allowed him to vinify 10 tonnes of bought in grapes and put them under his own label each year. Now completely independent and now making wines in two different locations in Stellenbosch, Miles is starting to extend both production and the range he produces.

Miles Mossop Wines started out as a three-wine project. As part of the new expansion plans, Miles has introduced three more wines under ‘The Introduction’ label.

The Introduction Red is based on Cabernet Sauvignon, with the addition of Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Cinsault. The wine is designated as WO Stellenbosch, with fruit from Bottelary, Banhoek and Polkerdraai.

WINEMAKING NOTE

This wine is a blend of 62% Cabernet Sauvignon, 14% Cinsault, 14% Merlot, 8% Petit Verdot and 2% Cabernet franc from specially selected vineyard sites around the Stellenbosch region. The grapes are hand-picked at a ripeness to express purity of fruit and freshness. Fermentation takes place in wooden open top fermenters without the inoculation of yeast and lasts for up to 3 weeks. After fermentation the wines are pressed to barrel for malolactic fermentation after which they are racked and returned to barrel for further maturation for up to 18 months. No new wood is used so as to retain the freshness and purity inherent in the grapes. The wine was blended and bottled in October 2019.

TASTING NOTES

Stunning depth of colour with an intense garnet hue. The aromas emanating from the glass are reminiscent of red and black bramble fruit with hints of Karoo bush and cedar. The palate mirrors the aromas on the nose with a stunning sweet red fruit core and a dry textured herbal character leading to a clarity in the mouth on the finish.

FOOD PAIRING

This wine is great companion at a braai before, during and after. Pairs especially well with herb crusted Lamb chops.