Grangehurst Cabernet Sauvignon 2009

Handcrafted with unwavering tradition and an unhurried approach, Jeremy Walker's winemaking philosophy can be encapsulated in these three words. However, there is one vital element missing from this description - Deliciousness. Jeremy firmly believes in withholding the release of his wines until they have reached the pinnacle of enjoyment, as evidenced by this current vintage.

In 1992, Jeremy Walker established Grangehurst, transforming his father's squash court into an improvised wine production cellar. For his initial six vintages, he meticulously crafted wines within the confines of this unique "squash court cellar," only relocating after the 1998 vintage.

Recognised for his exceptional winemaking skills, Jeremy was invited to join the esteemed Cape Winemakers Guild in 1996. He remained a dedicated member for many years, relinquishing his position in 2021 to make room for a promising young winemaker to shine.

The grapes are meticulously hand-harvested, destemmed, and carefully sorted by hand. Fermentation and gentle punchdowns occur in open fermenters, with 50% whole berries contributing to the process. Afterward, a wooden basket press is employed for pressing. The wine is then aged for an impressive 34 months in French oak barrels before bottling, undergoing further maturation in the bottle before release.

This full-bodied wine boasts an intense character, with vibrant cassis, red berry, and fynbos notes. The oak maturation imparts enticing cedar and spice accents. Thanks to its extended ageing period prior to release, the wine showcases beautifully rounded and seamlessly integrated tannins. In a world where wines are often sold prematurely, this offering stands out as truly remarkable.