Spier Creative Block 5 2017

A true symphony of a wine, with Bordeaux varietals led by Cabernet Sauvignon achieving a perfect, rousing harmony. If you ever need a standout performance from a red come dinnertime, then this is your blend. International critics agree too, with the 2017 vintage winning Gold at the Concours Mondial de Bruxelles 2020 and a 93 point rating from British Wine Master Tim Atkin. Encore!

TASTING NOTE
Blackberry, cherry and blackcurrant is supported by cedar, dark chocolate and fennel hints. The vibrant palate has great balance and dense tannins. The taste will be enhanced by ageing.

AWARDS

Veritas Awards 2021 - Gold
Concours Mondial de Bruxelles 2020 - Gold
International Wine and Spirits competition 2020 - Silver 90 points
John Platter Wine Guide 2021 - 4.5 stars

SERVE WITH

Creative Block 5 duets beautifully with rich stews and braises, like lamb shank or oxtail too.

SPECIFICATIONS

WINEMAKER
Johan Jordaan

ORIGIN
Coastal region

TERROIR / SOIL
Decomposed granite and clay subsoil

VINEYARD AND CLIMATE CONDITIONS
For slow ripening and ultimate flavour development, the coolest slope was chosen. Foliage management was done to enhance fertility in the vines and to expose the grapes to more sun, thereby enhancing skin thickness for higher extraction, intensity and assisting with phenolic ripeness.

WINEMAKING
Grapes were hand-harvested, pre-cooled, de-stemmed and individually sorted to remove unwanted berries. Fermentation took place in stainless-steel tanks for up to 21 days. Malolactic fermentation and maturation took place in 300L French oak barrels for 18 months (60% first fill; the balance second fill). Before blending, the wines were crafted individually to address the unique needs of each varietal so that each could reach its highest potential. Selective tasting from the barrels determined the composition of the blend. Expert blending has ensured harmony between the five varietals. The wine has achieved the ultimate balance between fruit, palate volume, oak extract and tannin – all without losing each varietal’s innate quality and unique sense of place.

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