The Collection of Grand Maitre Wines comes from the private single estate, Ghajn Rihana, with the fruit of each vintage being dedicated to one of the noble Grand Masters of the Sovereign Military Order of Malta. The blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc generally produces very concentrated, full bodied wines of an intense, fruity, aromatic character. The aromas are of intense concentration of a black fruit character showing ripe, integrated, astringent tannins with an animal complexity of tar and leather combined with an oaky spicy character of cinnamon and liquorice. This wine can age further and is also a collector’s item reaching high prices.

Grape Varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon & Cabernet Franc

The Vineyard & Training Systems

Ghajn Rihana estate in Burmarrad. 1.246 hectares of land under vine. Deep alkaline soil with calcareous clay subsoil. Vertical trellis system with permanent cordon training for Cabernet Sauvignon and replacement cane pruning for Cabernet Franc. Controlled drip irrigation 9,000 vines per hectare

Yield, Harvest & Vintage Conditions

7,779 kg of grapes harvested.

Yield: 43.7 hectolitres per hectare.

Hand harvested on 09/09/2004.

The 2004 vintage was characterised by average winter climatic conditions and a particularly cool summer, with the average temperature for July being as much as 3°C lower than the average for the month. This led to a prolonged maturity, giving particularly well structured, balanced wines.

Vinification

Destemming, 15 days maceration, temperature controlled stainless steel fermentation. Minimum of 14 months maturation in new french oak barrels

Wine Analysis: Acidity: 5.1g/l Alcohol:12.7%

Peak Drinking: 2014 - 2020

Food Matches

Rich meat stews, stuffed aubergines, curries, barbecued vegetables, chilli con carne

Tasting Notes:

Cork: Good condition

App: Clear pale garnet rim, deep ruby core, medium tinted legs.

Nose: Clean, medium + intense aromas of a developing mineral nature of tar, flint and rubber underlined by black fruit: black berries, black cherries and subtle oak aromas.

Palate: Dry, medium – acidity, medium body, gentle and ripe tannins, well integrated alcohol, high level of fruitiness: black cherries and black currants. Creamy and soft with a medium finish.

Conclusion: A warming, still fruit-driven red wine with a good balance of terroir and fruitiness. Well structured and balanced.

Keeping well, ready to drink now or further ageing of 5-6 years.