Our Merlot is a true expression of the variety as grown on the Meerlust estate and draws fruit from two of our four distinctive terroirs. Each terroir provides a unique element to the final blend.
This vintage is 100% Merlot. It is made up of a few individual parcels that are all fermented separately before undergoing malolactic fermentation in 300 L barrels. After 6 months in barrel, the final components were selected and blended and put back to barrel for 12 months in 40% new French oak for further maturation before bottling.
Tasting Notes: Ripe black plum, dark cherry, dried herbs underpinned by dark chocolate and oak spice. The palate offers a concentrated dark fruit core, balanced with a lifted acidity while still delicate on the finish. This wine shows the balance, intensity and fruit purity of the 2023 vintage and as with all Merlot’s from the estate, will age gracefully and will gain in complexity and suppleness of tannin for many years to come.
Food Pairing: Pairs best with rich, savory, and earthy dishes. Ideal matches include roast lamb, beef dishes, mushroom-based risotto or pasta, and matured cheeses like Gruyère or cheddar. It is also versatile with game meats such as venison or duck.
