Maritimus is Sumaridge’s flagship Bordeaux-style red, a wine that captures the cool-climate character of the Upper Hemel-en-Aarde Valley while delivering the structure and depth associated with the great blends of the Gironde. Its name, meaning “of the sea,” pays tribute to the Atlantic Ocean that lies just a few kilometres from the estate and shapes every aspect of the vineyards.
The blend varies slightly by vintage but typically includes Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, and Petit Verdot, each sourced from carefully selected estate blocks planted on clay-rich soils over decomposed granite. These ocean-facing slopes sit at 150–200 metres above sea level, where cold maritime breezes and long, slow ripening seasons allow the grapes to develop ripe flavours while preserving vibrant natural acidity.
In the cellar, each variety is vinified separately in small open fermenters to preserve site character. After blending, the wine is matured in French oak barrels (a mix of new and second fill) for around 18–20 months, giving polish and complexity without overwhelming the fruit.
The result is a refined but powerful Cape Bordeaux. Aromas of blackcurrant, plum, and wild blackberry mingle with hints of graphite, cedar, and a touch of coastal salinity. The palate is structured and focused, with fine-grained tannins, bright acidity, and a long finish marked by dark fruit and subtle spice.
Approachable within a few years of release, Maritimus has the concentration and balance to reward 8–12 years of cellaring, developing savoury nuances of leather, tobacco, and truffle while maintaining freshness. It stands as a testament to the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley’s ability to produce Bordeaux blends of elegance and longevity, shaped by the ocean breezes that inspired its name.