2009 is regarded as having been an extraordinary vintage in South Africa and La Motte Cellar Master, Edmund Terblanche explains why he regards 2009 as arguably the best vintage the past ten years. “Low average summer temperatures promoted good flavour protection and ripening at low sugars, ensuring the production of elegant and accessible wines. Yields were lower due to a long winter, very little rain during December and January and wind after veraison, resulting in concentrated flavours.” With these ideal growing conditions, the grapes used in the 2009 Hanneli R blend brought the best of their various growing areas. Traditionally a southern Rhône-style wine, the 2009 Hanneli R comprises of Shiraz originating from Elim, Grenache from Darling, Carignan from Malmesbury and Cinsaut from the West Coast. A small percentage Merlot from the Walker Bay area has also been added to the 2009 blend resulting in a complex and harmonious wine. The combination of an exceptional vintage, 36 months of oak maturation and beautifully healthy grapes from diverse terroir has produced a wine with depth, complexity and personality. The intense and distinctive nose of rose petal perfume combines beautifully with black berry and mulberry fruit, as well as cinnamon and black pepper spice. The fullness of the palate with its powdery tannins is beautifully balanced by the freshness of a lingering minerality. Enjoyed at its best between eight and twelve years after vintage, the 2009 Hanneli R is an excellent example of a serious red wine presented with elegance and finesse. The 2009 Hanneli R is available at the La Motte cellar door for R845 per bottle.