| Grape Varieties | 100% Merlot |
| ABV (Alcohol By Volume) | 14.7 % |
| Bottle Size Available | 75 cl |
| Type of Soil | Ancient soils of decomposed granite |
| Vinification |
The grapes were hand-picked in the cool of early morning. On the sorting table, all excess stalks and inferior berries were carefully removed. Grape bunches were gently destalked. Fermentation took place in both 3-ton and 7-ton, open-top stainless steel tanks. The wines were pumped-over and punched-down manually 3 to 5 times per day ensuring maximum colour extraction from the skins. After primary fermentation the wines was left on skins for an additional 7 – 14 days before pressing. Each variety is maturated separately (micro-vinified) in oak barrels before blending and eventual bottling. Ageing: 14 months in 300 litre French Oak barrels. |
Ernie Els Merlot
TASTING NOTES
The 2016 Merlot is medium in body and textbook in character. Classically built, it offers a mélange of stewed fruit, chocolate and spice from the nose through to the exotic palate. Notes of dry earth and hints of mint offer complexity, while classy oak notes intertwine with masses of ripe, succulent fruit. A fresh acidity nicely balances the ripe berries and savoury stance, while gutsy tannins offer some good tension and depth. The finish is powerfully textured and dry, offering a platform for 5 – 8 years cellaring.
PAIRING
Roasts, grilled red meats and refined poultry dishes.
