Main Divide Merlot Cabernet – The Bordeaux red wine tradition revived on New Zealand’s South Island

The Main Divide Merlot Cabernet is produced in the same style as the famous red wine from Bordeaux, using traditional methods. After the harvest in April, the grapes began to ferment naturally in stainless steel tanks. During this process, the juice was regularly pumped over the cap of floating grape skins (instead of dipping). This ensured that a perfect balance of tannins was extracted from the fruit. The wine was then gently pressed and aged in French oak barriques. The following summer, when the weather became warmer, a natural malolactic (second) fermentation took place. After 18 months of ageing in oak barrels, the different batches were carefully blended to obtain a wine that was as complex and balanced as possible. The final product consists mainly of Merlot, with the remainder made from Cabernet Sauvignon and a small dash of Malbec.

And this is how the Main Divide Merlot Cabernet from Pegasus Bay tastes

The Main Divide Merlot Cabernet seduces with delicate aromas of blackcurrant, interwoven with impressions of liquorice, peppermint, dark soy, coffee, leather and a hint of violet. The mouthfeel is soft and velvety, beautifully balanced with ripe tannins and a backbone of tangy acidity. This is a complex and harmonious wine from New Zealand with juicy fruit, elegant structure and a long, flavourful finish.