Holden Manz Wines
Holden Manz Merlot Reserve 2022
Winter 2021 saw cool temperatures and good strong rains allowing the vines
a chance to rest. Growing season was dominated by moderate temperatures,
moderate rainfall and winds and a slow ripening period. 2022 harvest was a
little later than normal due to cooler weather throughout the season, which
persisted through harvest time and expressed itself with grapes of higher
acidity. The season produced strong vine growth, good bunch and berry
sizes.
COLOUR
Dark garnet with a bright red rim.
NOSE
Black cherry dominates with blackberry, subtle cedar, fynbos and wild fig.
PALATE
Full bodied. Black cherries and plum on entry with a complex mid-palate and
a mocha finish – very moreish! Soft round tannins with long velvety fruity
finish.
TECHNICAL DATA
Analysis: Alc: 14.5% • TA: 4.89 g/l • RS: 2.9 g/l • pH: 3.82
WINEMAKER’S NOTES
Harvested between 4th and 12th April 2022 compared with the 11th and 14th of
March for the 2021 vintage. Hand selected bunches underwent individual
berry selection to ensure only the best fruit was fermented. 100% of the fruit
was fermented as berries in stainless steel tank. All fermentation was
spontaneous (wild) with no commercial yeast added. 32 days post
fermentation maceration. Matured for 26 months in 60% new French oak
barrels. Bottled 11 July 2024. Limited production of 60 x 1.5l magnum bottles
and 2988 750ml bottles. A classic Merlot which will continue to develop for
the next 7-10 years.