Vineyard and winemaking
Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon seldom ripen reliably in Cornwall's open vineyards, so Knightor grew the fruit for this unusual 2016 bottling under cover. The additional warmth of the protected environment allowed both varieties to reach greater ripeness while retaining the freshness of their cool-climate setting.
Each variety was fermented separately with regular punch-downs. After pressing and malolactic fermentation, around one-third of the wine matured in new French oak while the balance remained in stainless steel; the components were aged for ten months before blending and bottling.
Tasting notes
Appearance
Deep garnet red with a clear ruby core and a gently developed edge.
Nose
Plum and black cherry meet blackcurrant leaf, cracked pepper and warm baking spice, with a restrained note of cedar from the barrel-aged component.
Palate
Medium-bodied and rounded, with stewed red and black fruit, lively acidity and softening tannins. Cabernet Sauvignon supplies savoury structure, Merlot brings flesh, and the oak adds a subtle sweet-spice note before a smooth, warming finish.
Food pairing
Try with cottage pie, roast beef with root vegetables, sausages and onion gravy, or grilled field mushrooms with thyme. Serve at cool room temperature and handle carefully, as this mature English red may show some natural bottle variation.
Background story
Knightor is based near St Austell Bay and draws on Cornwall's maritime climate to produce small quantities of English still wine, sparkling wine and vermouth. The winery's outlook is practical and exploratory, working with both established English grapes and less expected varieties when the conditions allow.
This 2016 Merlot Cabernet Sauvignon is one of Knightor's more unconventional releases. Growing the fruit under cover made possible a Cornish interpretation of a classic partnership, while separate vinification and divided maturation preserved both freshness and structure. It is now fully mature and best approached for its rarity as well as its savoury character.
