Bein Merlot 2023 (Top 10)
Merlot
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Bein Merlot 2023 (Top 10)
Bein Private Cellar is a tiny boutique estate on the southern slopes of the Polkadraai Hills in Stellenbosch, where Luca and Ingrid Bein craft wines from just a few hectares of Merlot vineyards. Originally trained as veterinarians in Switzerland, the couple brought a scientific mindset and meticulous attention to detail when establishing their cellar in the Cape winelands.
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The vineyard sits on weathered granite soils overlooking False Bay, where cooling maritime breezes help moderate Stellenboschâs warm summer climate. This combination of altitude, ocean influence and well-drained soils allows Merlot to ripen slowly and evenly, preserving freshness while building depth of flavour.
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Bein focuses almost exclusively on Merlot, producing small quantities with careful vineyard monitoring and precise parcel selection. The flagship Bein Merlot 2023 was matured for around 12 months in French oak barrels before an additional year of bottle ageing prior to release - a measured approach designed to integrate fruit and oak while allowing the wine to develop complexity over time.
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Colour:
Deep ruby with a youthful purple edge, indicating both concentration and freshness.
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Nose:
Black cherry and ripe plum lead the aromatics, followed by raspberry and a light floral lift of violet. Subtle notes of cedar, cocoa and gentle spice emerge from the French oak.
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Palate:
Medium- to full-bodied with a supple texture typical of Merlot. The palate shows layered dark fruit - black cherry, plum and mulberry - supported by fine, slightly grippy tannins and balanced acidity. Oak adds hints of chocolate and sweet spice without dominating the fruit.
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Finish:
Lingering and savoury, with dark berry fruit gradually giving way to soft cedar and cocoa nuances.
- Food Pairing : The plush texture and moderate tannin structure of Bein Merlot 2023 make it a natural partner for comforting, flavourful dishes. Roast lamb with rosemary works particularly well, as the wineâs dark fruit and soft spice complement the savoury richness of the meat. A mushroom risotto or creamy pasta with wild mushrooms also pairs beautifully, echoing the wineâs earthy undertones. For something classic, try it with a slow-cooked beef ragu or venison pie - dishes whose depth and savoury character are balanced by the Merlotâs fruit and smooth structure. A mature hard cheese, such as aged cheddar or GruyĂšre, also brings out the wineâs subtle oak and cocoa notes.
- Drink before: Drink now or cellar for 8â10 years under proper conditions.
- Vintage: 2023
- Manufacturer: Bein
- Region: Stellenbosch
- Medals Won: Taransaud Top 10 Merlot Awards 2025: Winner.
- Grapes used to make this wine were grown in: Weathered granite soils.
- Sugar Content: 2.9g/L
- Alcohol Content: 14.3%
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.