Le Bonheur Merlot 2021
Merlot
Description
Positioned between the Simonsberg mountains and Klapmuts Hill, Le Bonheur is one of Stellenbosch’s long-established wine estates, with a history dating back to the late 1700s. The estate’s vineyards stretch across varying elevations and aspects, creating a diverse growing environment that allows varieties like Merlot to develop both concentration and freshness.
The Le Bonheur Merlot 2021 draws fruit from some of the estate’s oldest vineyards, including Merlot vines planted in 1985. Granite-derived soils and cooler elevated sites contribute structure and aromatic lift, while the cooler 2021 vintage delivered smaller berries with notable intensity and balance. In the cellar, gentle extraction and restrained handling preserve the softer, more supple character of the variety. The wine spent 18 months maturing in French oak barrels, adding texture and savoury complexity without overwhelming the fruit.
Colour:
Dark ruby red with a bright garnet edge and youthful depth in the glass.
Nose:
Ripe cherries and blackcurrant lead the aromatics, followed by cedarwood, potpourri and subtle dark chocolate notes. There is a gentle savoury edge beneath the fruit that adds complexity without becoming overly earthy.
Palate:
Medium-bodied and smooth, with supple tannins and a silky texture. The palate shows generous dark fruit alongside hints of cocoa, spice and soft oak influence. Fresh acidity keeps the wine poised and balanced, while the tannins remain polished rather than firm.
Finish:
Long, elegant and softly savoury, with lingering notes of black fruit, cedar and fine spice.
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Le Bonheur Merlot 2021
- Food Pairing : Le Bonheur Merlot 2021 is versatile at the table thanks to its supple tannins and balanced structure. It pairs naturally with dishes like spaghetti Bolognese, roast chicken with herbs, or grilled lamb rump, where the wine’s ripe fruit and savoury notes complement the richness of the meat without overpowering it. The smooth texture also works well with mushroom-based dishes or beef burgers topped with mature cheddar, while the subtle oak spice makes it a comfortable match for slow-cooked winter meals.
- Drink before: Cellaring potential: 5-10 years.
- Vintage: 2021
- Manufacturer: Le Bonheur
- Region: Simonsberg
- Star Rating: Wine-of-the-Month Club’s Panel Rating: 3 Stars.
- Medals Won: Fine Wine Awards 2025 - 95 points.
- Grapes used to make this wine were grown in: Hutton, Tukulu, Klapmuts and Kroonstad.
- Sugar Content: 3.3g/L
- Alcohol Content: 13.76%
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
Our Guarantee:
We guarantee a full credit on the cost of the wine, no questions asked, and we will also collect the remainder of any pack and refund you in full if you are unhappy with the quality, the service or any aspect of Wine-of-the-Month Club.
Replacements:
In the unlikely event that there is a broken bottle in your case, please tell us immediately and we will credit your account. We reserve the right to substitute product if stock runs out, to the same or higher value of the stock.
Please note:
These figures are subject to change.