Grape Variety: Syrah, Petit Verdot
 
Alcohol content: 14%Vol
 
Vinification: The grapes are harvested when fully ripe (the Syrah may even be slightly shriveled) and vinified in different ways. The submerged cap technique is favoured for the Syrah which ferments on native yeasts for 18-20 days. During the first few days of this process the fermenting must is racked and returned (the process of délestage) several times. Punching down is the technique adopted for the Petit Verdot as this approach guarantees an optimal extraction of the grape’s tannins and polyphenolic compounds. It is the resulting full-bodied Petit Verdot which gives Mater Matuta its long aging potential while the Syrah gives it its complexity of character, highlighted by smooth tannins and an intense aroma of black cherry and spice. After 22-24 months aging in oak the wines are blended and left undisturbed in the bottle for a further 10-12 months.
 
Colour: Deep, dense, ruby red color.
 
Bouquet: The wine displays outstanding personality both on the nose and on the palate with its aroma of coffee beans, violets, ripe black cherry, coriander, nutmeg and cinnamon.
 
Taste: Silky and seductive, but perfectly supported by fine tannins and a pleasing astringency, Mater Matuta delivers a long, lush finish.