After much anticipation, the Rosendal Merlot 2016 is now available for purchase both through our wine merchants and in our online store.
This Merlot has a vibrant red core with a faint brick-red rim. Fragrant plum, ripe raspberries and gentle oaky nuances on the nose are followed by plush mulberries and subtle herbal notes on the palate. It is medium-bodied and quite juicy with moderate to grippy tannins and a soft, dry finish.
The grapes were sourced from a property on the outskirts of Paarl overlooking the majestic Simonsberg Mountain. The terrain is along the foothills of the Klein Drakenstein Mountain at around 200m above sea level. The temperate Mediterranean climate is excellent for growing quality grapes and the farm receives plenty of sweet natural water that runs down the slopes of the mountain. All of the vines are trellised and planted on a variety of soils ranging from decomposed granite to sandsoil.
The grapes were picked cold in the early mornings between 23˚ and 24 º Balling sugar ripeness. The bunches were de-stemmed, gently crushed and went into tanks for 2 to 3 days. Fermentation on the skins peaked between 30˚ and 32 º Celsius and lasted from 7 to 10 days. The healthy grapes enabled a long post-fermentation of 25 to 30 days. After pressing the wine was pumped into 225L French Oak barrels where malolactic fermentation took place. A mix of 1st to 3rd fill barrels were used ensuring mild wood integration. The wines aged for 12 to 16 months.
This Merlot is well suited for a variety of dishes. Try pairing with Lasagna or any tomato based pasta dishes. Grilled lamb chops and lamb stews always work well or try with a strong flavoured cheese like Gruyere. Only 5196 bottles were produced, so make sure to place your order before it’s too late!
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