Ghajn Rihana estate in Burmarrad. 1.246 hectares of land under vine. Deep alkaline soil with calcareous clay subsoil. Vertical trellis system with permanent cordon training for Cabernet Sauvignon and replacement cane pruning for Cabernet Franc. Controlled drip irrigation 9,000 vines per hectare
7,779 kg of grapes harvested.
Yield: 43.7 hectolitres per hectare.
Hand harvested on 09/09/2004.
The 2004 vintage was characterised by average winter climatic conditions and a particularly cool summer, with the average temperature for July being as much as 3°C lower than the average for the month. This led to a prolonged maturity, giving particularly well structured, balanced wines.
Destemming, 15 days maceration, temperature controlled stainless steel fermentation. Minimum of 14 months maturation in new french oak barrels
Rich meat stews, stuffed aubergines, curries, barbecued vegetables, chilli con carne
Appearance
Moderate intensity with a medium ruby wide rim and a ruby core.
Nose
A captivating nose with pronounced aromas of a youthful nature with ripe black fruit: black cherries and forest fruit. As it breathes it shows soft spice characteristics of ginger, white pepper, nutmeg and coffee.
Palate
Intense sweet rich fruit: amarena cherries and raspberries with very ripe robust tannins. A medium bodied wine with good levels of acidity and alcohol, balanced oak integration and a long remarkable finish.
Conclusion
This is definitely a wine to keep.