First Cape is one of the plethora of producers bringing New World wine to the masses in the UK market. The company produces a variety of wines, from simple quaffing wines sold by colour, through to a variety of single varietal bottles and limited edition releases.
First Cape History and Wine
First Cape has a relatively short history in the South African wine world; the company was founded back in 2002 as a joint venture allowing those involved to export their wines from South Africa to the UK. The original brand included just 38 growers formed into the co-operative. Today First Cape is made up of 5 co-operatives, which incorporate over 200 growers into the brand.
First Cape wines are readily available in the UK in a variety of locations including the usual pubs, supermarkets and off licence locations. Prices range from bargain to mid-range and bottles are frequently discounted in the supermarkets.
First Cape’s limited release Merlot is a 100% Merlot varietal wine produced in the Western Cape region of South Africa. At just over a year old the wine is deliberately released early and should be drunk young, within 12 months of purchase. The wine has a fairly high alcoholic content at 14%.
First Cape Limited Release Merlot 2009 – Tasting Notes
- Presentation – The bottle comes in a standard 75cl green Bordeaux style wine bottle. The wine is sealed with a typical screw cap fitting. The neck also bears the seal designating the wine as a product of South Africa.
- Appearance – The wine is a dark purple to cherry red colour. When swirled, the wine has an average viscosity level.
- Nose – The dominant elements of the nose are that of blackcurrants. The nose also has a sweet backdrop and liquorish notes. There is also a warmth noticeable from the high alcohol levels.
- Pallet – The pallet is extremely acidic and the power of the alcohol is very noticeable. Like the nose, the pallet has blackcurrant fruity notes. In addition, there are some earthy notes present such as fallen leaves. The wine has a medium finish, which is dominated by the warmth of the alcohol and a little pepper.
- Summary – This is an interesting wine, with fresh fruity flavours and good acidic balance. The wine may however, be a little high on the alcohol side for many. The warmth of the alcohol tends to dominate the pallet.
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Frank Smith - Frank Smith currently works as an full time industry analyst for a well known construction company in Lincolnshire. In his spare time, ...
