De Trafford | Elevation 393 | 2014
De Trafford | Elevation 393 | 2014
The single vineyard flagship of De Trafford, only released when it’s ready to drink and when it best reflects the magnificence of their mountain site at 393m above sea level. When it comes to adding something not typically seen in a so called Bordeaux blend, David Trafford says “why not, if the wine is better for it?” And after tasting this, we couldn’t agree more.
The 2014 vintage is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (43%), Syrah (29%), Merlot (21%) and Cabernet Franc (7%). Each varietal goes through spontaneous natural yeast fermentation after which they’re matured separately in mostly new French oak for 9 months before blending. Only the best barrels are selected for the final blend with a total of 20 months in oak.
Nose & Palate
Medium deep, bright red colour. Red berries, cherries, spicy tomato paste nose with a little fynbos character. Some blueberry and blackcurrant too, with well integrated new French oak notes. Bright red fruit and spice palate and a lovely fine texture. The rich, but refined berry fruit of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot make up the core with the wonderful spice of the Syrah and Cabernet Franc adding another dimension. Drink now to 2030.
Pairing
Enjoy with duck, charcuterie or roast meat.
Accolades
95 Points - Tim Atkin MW | 5 Stars (95 Points) - Platter’s SA Wine Guide
About the Winery
Great wines start with great vines. The hallmark of De Trafford is the effort spent growing ripe vines with a focus on yield, quality and sustainability, to produce truly outstanding wine.
Situated on the beautiful Mont Fleur farm, 380m up between the Stellenbosch and Helderberg mountains, the De Trafford winery was started in 1992 by former architect David Trafford and his wife Rita. After learning a great deal from local farmers in Stellenbosch and abroad in Bordeaux, David Trafford carefully chose varieties, clones and rootstocks to match the subtle soil and microclimate differences in the farm. Such careful attention to detail is carried through all facets of the growing and winemaking process at De Trafford - the result is seriously well structured and concentrated red wines which convey the personality and uniqueness of the mountain site.
