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.
51,021kg of grapes harvested.
Yield: 44.1 hectolitres per hectare.
Merlot hand harvested on 26/08/1998.
Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc & Petit Verdot hand harvested from 31/08/1998 till 02/09/1998.
1998 was characterised by heavy rainfalls during the winter season, followed by an exceptionally hot summer.
Destemming, 15 days maceration, temperature controlled fermentation. Minimum of 12 months maturation in new french oak barrels
Simply roast or grilled meat like lamb, pork and garlic. Beef
Appearance
A medium intensity showing a tawny rim with a light ruby core.
Nose
Medium intense smoky aromas of a developing nature with coffee, liquorice, leather, vanilla, leather, ripe prunes and maraschino cherries.
Palate
Moderate acidity matched with a good level of ripe tannins. It’s a full bodied evolving wine with a lingering finish. Flavours of soft spice: vanilla and nutmeg, a slight hint of a mineral nature and chocolate undertones.
Conclusion
A rounded and well-structured red wine that is drinking well now.