De Grendel Merlot 2022
OVERVIEW
Discover the De Grendel Merlot 2022, an elegant cool-climate red wine from De Grendel Wines in Cape Town, South Africa. Crafted from vineyards overlooking the Atlantic Ocean on the slopes of the Tygerberg, this Merlot combines ripe fruit richness with refined structure, showcasing the balance and sophistication of coastal winemaking.
WHO IS IT FOR?
Perfect for lovers of smooth, elegant Merlot with depth and complexity.
Ideal for:
- Relaxed dinners and entertaining
- Pairing with rich comfort food
- Wine enthusiasts seeking refined cool-climate reds
A polished and approachable wine that effortlessly balances richness and finesse.
TASTING NOTES
Appearance:
Deep ruby red with vibrant clarity.
Aromas:
Ripe black cherries, plums, and subtle violet notes layered with cedar and gentle spice.
Palate:
Juicy red berries and cocoa balanced by soft earthiness and elegant oak integration.
Texture:
Smooth and medium-bodied with balanced acidity and refined tannins.
Finish:
Long, polished, and lingering with refined savoury complexity.
FOOD PAIRING
Pairs beautifully with:
- Herb-crusted lamb chops
- Slow-braised beef short ribs
- Mushroom risotto
- Charcuterie boards with aged cheddar or gouda
- Tomato-based pasta dishes such as lasagna or spaghetti bolognese
- Roasted root vegetables
Serve at 16–18°C in a Bordeaux-style red wine glass to fully express its aromatics and texture.
SERVING TIPS & DETAILS
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Serving Temperature: 16–18°C
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Ideal Drinking Window: Enjoy now or cellar for medium-term ageing
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Glass Type: Bordeaux-style red wine glass
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Alcohol: 14.57%
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Residual Sugar: 2.5 g/l
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Total Acidity: 6.0 g/l
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pH: 3.55
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Origin: Cape Town, South Africa
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Grape Variety: 100% Merlot
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Soil Type: Hutton Oak Leaf soils
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Elevation: 200 m above sea level
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Vine Age: 15–18 years
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Yield: 7–8 tons per hectare
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Vinification: Handpicked fruit destalked, crushed, and fermented in conical stainless steel tanks using aerated pump-over extraction
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Maturation: Matured in French oak barrels — 15% new oak, 40% second fill, 25% third fill, and 20% fourth fill
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Storage: Store horizontally in a cool, dark place
ACCOLADES AND REVIEWS
⭐ Vivino Reviews/Rating: 3.9/5
"Very bold, strong character for a Merlot. Beautiful smoky, oak notes on the nose. Dark plum and cherry on the palate with very strong tannins on the finish."
The 2022 vintage followed a late winter and spring with a later harvest season and compact January heat waves, resulting in above-average crop quality and quantity.
Celebrated for its smooth elegance, ripe fruit character, and balanced cool-climate structure.
FAQ's
Is it oaked?
Yes. The wine matured in French oak barrels with a combination of new and older oak for complexity and balance.
Is it dry or sweet?
It is a dry Merlot with ripe fruit expression and balanced acidity.
Can it age?
Yes. Its structure and oak maturation support graceful medium-term ageing.
What makes it unique?
Its cool-climate coastal vineyards and balanced oak integration create a Merlot with elegance, freshness, and layered complexity.
What foods does it pair with?
Lamb, braised beef, mushroom dishes, pasta, roasted vegetables, and mature cheeses pair beautifully with this wine.
Is it suitable for gifting?
Absolutely. Its refined style and approachable sophistication make it an excellent gift for red wine lovers.
