Glenelly, Lady May 2019

Glenelly Estate, situated in the picturesque Ida's Valley of Stellenbosch, South Africa, was founded by the esteemed May de Lencquesaing. The Lady May 2019 is the estate's flagship wine, crafted to honour its legendary owner. This Bordeaux-style blend showcases the finest components of the 2019 vintage, reflecting both elegance and complexity.

The 2019 vintage presented challenges due to climatic conditions; however, meticulous viticulture practices and patient grape sorting resulted in an impressive wine. The blend comprises predominantly Cabernet Sauvignon, complemented by 10% Cabernet Franc, 10% Merlot, and 5% Petit Verdot. Each varietal was aged separately for 12 months in 30–40% new French oak barrels. Post-blending, the wine underwent an additional 12 months of maturation in 75% new French oak, culminating in a total of 24 months of barrel ageing.

Appearance: The wine exhibits a deep, garnet-red hue with a vibrant ruby rim, indicative of its youth and potential for ageing. Its clarity and brilliance reflect careful winemaking practices, while the slow-forming legs suggest a full-bodied structure with balanced alcohol content.

Aroma: The nose is greeted with rich aromas of dark berries, notably blackberries and blackcurrants, intertwined with subtle hints of mocha and cedar. As the wine opens, delicate notes of fresh plums, cocoa, tobacco, and pine emerge, adding layers of complexity and depth.

Taste: On the palate, the wine is medium to full-bodied, offering a harmonious blend of sweet dark fruit flavours, including cassis and dark cherries. The fruit is complemented by delicate spicy plum undertones, specific to Glenelly's terroir. The tannins are fine and precise, providing structure without overpowering the palate. A subtle herbal character, along with nuances of pencil shavings, adds to the wine's intricacy.

Finish: The finish is long and refined, with the vibrant fruit flavours gradually giving way to lingering notes of mocha and cedar. The well-integrated acidity ensures a fresh conclusion, while a slight saline quality leaves a memorable impression, inviting another sip.

Food Pairing: This elegant wine pairs beautifully with hearty dishes such as grilled lamb, venison, or beef. It also complements rich stews and dishes with a smoky element. For a vegetarian option, consider pairing it with roasted root vegetables or a hearty mushroom risotto.

The Glenelly Lady May 2019 exemplifies the estate's dedication to producing wines of distinction, offering a sophisticated and memorable tasting experience