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.
54,792 kg of grapes harvested.
Yield: 47.3 hectolitres per hectare.
Merlot hand harvested on 22/08/2001.
Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc & Petit Verdot hand harvested from 28/08/2001 till 29/08/2001.
The 2001 vintage was characterised by a dry winter, with reduced rainfall verging on drought conditions. Summer temperatures before harvest reached 38°C resulting in excellent grape maturity.
Destemming, 17 days maceration, temperature controlled fermentation. Minimum of 12 months maturation in new french oak barrels
Appearance
Moderate intensity with a medium ruby core and medium tawny rim
Nose
Moderate intense developing aromas of soft and ripe black fruit: black currants and black cherries with complex aromas of cedar, tobacco, coffee and a slight hint of chocolate.
Palate
The wine has a good level of acidity matched with abundant ripe and silky tannins. It is a full bodied wine with intense fruit characteristics of a black fruit nature balanced by mineral hints of smokiness. Good alcohol and a long finish.
Conclusion
This complex wine has good levels of acidity, well-defined fruit and generous alcohol. It is ready to drink now but has an ageing potential of 5-6 years.