Morgenster 2010. An outstanding vintage and reflection of terroir
Saturday, 2 March, 2013
Morgenster
Morgenster’s two 2010 red Bordeaux blends are winemaker Henry Kotzé’s first for the Estate and were made in the same minimalistic style of winemaking as previous vintages. “This philosophy allows the fruit to do the talking and makes the wine a true reflection of the terroir. It showcases what can be achieved with grape and ground in any given vintage”, Kotzé says.
Morgenster 2010, the Estate’s flagship, shows youthful vibrancy with beautiful natural acidity. Already well integrated with complexity beyond its years and velvety smooth fine tannins, it exhibits a pleasing grip coming from the sturdy Schapenberg terroir. According to Kotzé the result is a wine to remember from an outstanding vintage. “It will go beyond 20 years”, he says.
Once again the 2010 blends were shaped in collaboration with the Estate’s consultant winemaker, Pierre Lurton of Chateau Cheval Blanc. In line with the Estate’s philosophy of letting the vintage determine the blend, Morgenster 2010 contains 48% of Merlot, 25% of Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% of Cabernet Franc and 7% of Petit Verdot.
The bright, deep plum red blend presents an explosion of fruit and perfume to the nose. Blackcurrant and raspberry notes intermingle with rose petal and jasmine flavours. Underlying layers of cherry and violet are strengthened by more classical liquorice, thyme and forest floor aromas. Great opulence, balanced perfectly with a natural acidity, is the backbone to this age worthy wine. Once in the mouth, classical aromas spread, showing pencil shavings and earthy undertones but a more prominent concentration of sweet cherry and blackcurrant. Vanilla, mocha and some wood hover in the background.
Big flavours abound and so this wine teams well with a prime piece of beef, lamb, venison or duck. It is also a wine to sip on its own and enjoy uncovering the secrets of its complexity.
Morgenster 2010 was awarded 4½ stars in the 2013 John Platter Guide. Available from selected="true"="true" outlets and the Estate. RSP: R320.
Morgenster Lourens River Valley 2010, the Estate’s sibling Bordeaux blend, was awarded 4½ stars in the 2013 John Platter Guide. Available from selected="true"="true" outlets and the Estate. RSP: R149.