Taste & Aging
Light
Bold
Smooth
Tannic
Dry
Sweet
Soft
Acidity
Complexity
Complex & deepDrinking Window
Aging phase
Until 2024
Ready to drink
2024 - 2029
Past peak
After 2029
Aromas
Food Pairing
Vintage Report
The 2022 vintage in South Africa has been excellently rated with 92 Parker points. The wines are very promising and still have a youthful character at present.
De Grendel's winemaker, Charles Hopkins, is one of South Africa's most esteemed winemakers and knows better than anyone what Merlot needs. On the slopes of the Tygerberg, the Merlot vines enjoy the perfect climate with a cool Atlantic breeze. With the right soil structure, the Merlot develops a unique character that, after extensive oak aging, is perfectly expressed in the glass.
The family business De Grendel
De Grendel is located on the historic Cape farm of the same name, which dates back to 1720 and has been home to the Graaff family for five generations. A working farm, the tradition of raising cattle, sheep, and horses goes back over a century. Third Baronet Sir David Graaff established the vineyards and the modern wine cellar, a legacy now continued by his son, Sir De Villiers. Cellar Master Charles Hopkins combines state-of-the-art winemaking techniques with a nod to the farm's heritage, an environmentally friendly ethos, and a commitment to quality. The Merlot grapes are planted at Hutton Oak Leaf, 200 meters above sea level on the slopes of Tygerberg. From here, there are views of the Atlantic Ocean, which in turn provides the necessary cooling in the vineyards. The vines are approximately 13 to 16 years old. The grapes are harvested entirely by hand, destemmed, and then crushed. The juice ferments in stainless steel tanks. The aerated pumpover method is used to gently pump the fermenting juice over the skins four times a day for an hour at a time, resulting in soft tannins. The wine is then aged for 13 months in French oak barrels.The silky character of De Grendel Merlot
The Grendel Merlot boasts a beautiful ruby-red color with refined aromas of blueberries, a hint of anise, vanilla, and a subtle licorice note. The palate is silky smooth yet sufficiently powerful. It offers beautiful flavors of ripe red fruit, vanilla, light spices, and a touch of cedar. The finish reveals fine tannins and a light hint of mocha. A delicious pairing with a South African braai.Product details
| Alcohol content | 14.5% |
|---|---|
| Vintage | 2022 |
| Size | 0.75L |
| Region | Coastal Region |
| Land | South Africa |
| Producer | The Grendel |
| Varietal(s) | Merlot |
| Oak aging | Yes, 13 months in French oak barrels |
| Ideal serving temperature ? | 16° - 18°C |