Carmen Stevens Merlot 2023 (Top 10)
Merlot
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Carmen Stevens Merlot 2023 (Top 10)
Carmen Stevens Wines is the independent label of Carmen Stevens, one of South Africa's pioneering winemakers and the country's first Black female winemaker. Rather than being tied to a single estate vineyard, the Carmen Stevens Merlot is a Cape-wide expression, with the producer drawing on carefully selected fruit to create a wine that reflects Carmen's individual style and approach to winemaking. The 2023 vintage is classified as Wine of Origin Coastal Region. Carmen's winemaking philosophy centres on producing wines with personality, balance and a clear sense of fruit. Her Merlot has now earned a place in the Taransaud Hallo Merlot Top 10 for three consecutive vintages, underlining the consistency of the wine while allowing each vintage to express its own character.
Colour: Deep ruby-red with a dark, youthful core.
Nose: The 2026 Merlot Top 10 judging notes describe a subtle smoky character on the nose, with the fruit initially a little reserved. With air, darker berry fruit begins to emerge, adding depth and interest.
Palate: Medium to full-bodied, with dark berry fruit supported by chalky, fine-grained tannins. The palate has good length and structure, while well-integrated oak adds savoury depth towards the finish. Fresh acidity provides tension and keeps the wine focused rather than heavy. The judges noted that the 2023 vintage is youthful and powerful and would benefit from further time in bottle.
Finish: Long and persistent, with berry fruit, subtle oak and a fresh line of acidity carrying through the finish. There is enough tannic structure to suggest that patience will reward the drinker.
- Food Pairing : The wine's dark fruit, fresh acidity and chalky tannins make it versatile with savoury, moderately rich dishes. Try it with grilled sirloin or boerewors, lamb chops, beef burgers, mushroom pasta or a slow-cooked beef casserole. The tannins work well with grilled meats and richer textures, while the acidity provides freshness alongside tomato-based sauces and earthy mushroom dishes.
- Drink before: Cellaring potential: Best enjoyed with some bottle age; the 2026 Top 10 judging notes indicate that the wine needs time to fully integrate. A medium-term drinking window is appropriate rather than suggesting extended ageing.
- Vintage: 2023
- Region: Coastal Region, Western Cape
- Medals Won: 2026 Taransaud Hallo Merlot Top 10: Top 10 Winner.
- Sugar Content: 2.5g/L
- Alcohol Content: 14%
Stock and Delivery:
In Stock: Standard delivery within 5 days
Stock at supplier: Delivery within 10 - 15 days
R99 Nationwide
Free Delivery: On orders over R2 000
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