De Toren - Fusion V 2012
Pairing Suggestions
De Toren - Fusion V 2012 (92 TSW)
Blend: 56% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Malbec, 10% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc, 9% Petit Verdot.
De Toren proprietors Emil and Sonette den Dulk left Johannesburg in 1991 to establish their vineyards in the Polkadraai Hills of Stellenbosch. Situated on southern facing slopes overlooking False Bay, De Toren enjoys the cooling effect of constant ocean breezes.
Taking a holistic approach to keeping vineyard soils healthy and balanced, viticulturalist Ernest Manuel employs sustainable farming practices throughout the property.
The Den Dulks and winemaker Albie Koch seem to have found the key to success with their simple winemaking philosophy: gentle handling, no pumps, and minimum manipulation. Armed with this winning formula, the boutique farm has quickly risen to the ranks of South Africa’s winemaking elite with their duo of dazzling, stylish and complex five-varietal Bordeaux blends: the flagship Fusion V and the Merlot-based "Z," introduced with the 2004 vintage.
De Toren Private Cellar in Stellenbosch has a new ownership since 2008 with founder Emil den Dulk stepping aside to be replaced by Cedric Nicolas Schweri, Daniel Robert Mueller and Cape Estate AG while Albie Koch retains his shareholding in De Toren and remains as its Managing Partner
My tasting notes:
In the glass a deep ruby/purple color.
On the beautiful medium ++ nose aromas of blackberries, currants and clove with lovely integrated hints of chocolate, sweet plums, leather, cigarbox and vanilla.
On the palate dry, full-bodied with medium acidity and nicely integrated tannins. Round and complex mouthfeel with a recall of the nose with herbs, leather and dark cherries. Long persistent finish. Top!