KWV Merlot 2023

This generous and vibrant Merlot shows prominent aromas of ripe plum, raspberry and sour cherry with nuances of mint and cedary oak. The palate is accessible with indulgent tannins and a seamless finish

Soil in the Western Cape comprises ancient (350 million to 500 million years old) weathered soils of alluvial and volcanic origin. The alluvial soils are from both glacial and marine deposits. Some of the origins of the weathered soils are Table Mountain Sandstone, Granite and Malmesbury Shale. These have eroded over millennia and are now generally clay rich loam soils, which are most desirable for their ability to retain water for plant during summer months.

Ahead of this challenging vintage, winter brought enough cold to break dormancy although drought conditions persisted. Cool spring weather delayed bud break, but higher rainfall through October and November kept vine development on track. Southeaster winds picked up during flowering with varying impacts. December and January were warmer than 2017 and harvest started later. Defined by small berries, low yields and big concentration, 2018 produced great, elegant wines with full ripeness.

The grapes were harvested at optimal ripeness. After arriving at the cellar it was destemmed and crushed into stainless steel fermentation tanks where alcoholic fermentation took place. After fermentation is was racked onto a combination of French and American staves/chips and left on the oak for 8-10 months maturation. The wine was then blended, filtered and bottled.

Components of the wine were oak-matured for eight to ten months.

Enjoy this wine on its own or with tomato-based pastas, roasted duck, chicken or grilled steak.