Rhebokskloof releases their Pearlstone Shiraz 2009

Rhebokskloof Wine Estate near the historic town of Paarl has released their anticipated Pearlstone Shiraz 2009 just in time for those chilly winter nights. The Pearlstone range is just one of three ranges of wine produced at the Rhebokskloof Wine Estate, the other two being the Rhebokskloof Estate Range and the Mountain Vineyards Reserve Range.

Over the years, the wine estate has made its mark as a popular destination in the winelands, but the Pearlstone Shiraz 2009 is a clear indication that producing top quality wines remains the estate’s priority.

Grown in mostly decomposed granite soil, grapes for the Rhebokskloof Pearlstone Shiraz 2009 were selected from vineyards in the Swartland, Darling and Paarl regions and were harvested in February and March of 2009. Balling occurred at 25ºB with cold maceration and fermentation was in stainless steel tanks with regular pump-overs after which there was extended maceration for two weeks.

Eighty percent of the wine was matured in 225-litre French oak barrels with the remaining 20% in American oak barrels - 20% of the oak being new and 80% 2^nd and 3^rd fill. Maturation occurred over 14 months.

“We are very pleased with the Pearlstone Shiraz 2009 which retains all the trademark flavours of a quality shiraz such as black pepper, berries and dark chocolate”, says Rolanie Lotz, winemaker for Rhebokskloof Wine Estate. “It is further complemented by silky ripe tannins and delicate spicy oak nuances with fragrant smokey aromas.”

The Pearlstone Shiraz 2009 is great when paired with winter dishes, including red meat such as beef, wild game, pork and duck, as well as stews. It also goes well with spicy Mexican dishes and can be easily savoured with cheese too.

For more information on the Rhebokskloof Pearlstone Shiraz 2009, please visit www.rhebokskloof.co.za or call 021 869 8386.

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