Carmen Stevens Merlot 2022 (Top 10)
Merlot
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Carmen Stevens Merlot 2022 (Top 10)
The Carmen Stevens Merlot 2022 comes from the boutique cellar of Carmen Stevens Wines, based in Stellenbosch, one of South Africa’s most established fine-wine regions. Carmen Stevens made history as South Africa’s first Black female winemaker, and her label reflects a deeply personal approach to winemaking built on experience gained at leading estates across the Cape Winelands.
Working largely with carefully sourced vineyard parcels in Stellenbosch, Stevens focuses on producing wines that express varietal purity and site character without unnecessary manipulation. The region’s combination of decomposed granite soils, cooling maritime influences from False Bay, and warm daytime temperatures provides excellent conditions for Merlot, allowing the variety to ripen evenly while retaining freshness.
Fermentation is typically carried out with careful extraction to preserve fruit clarity, followed by maturation in French oak barrels to build texture and complexity without overwhelming the fruit. The resulting wines are approachable yet structured - reflecting a balance between classic Bordeaux inspiration and modern South African accessibility.
Colour:
Deep ruby with a youthful purple edge, clear and bright in the glass.
Nose:
Aromatic layers of ripe plum, black cherry and mulberry lead the bouquet, followed by hints of cocoa powder, cedar, dried herbs and a subtle note of vanilla from oak maturation.
Palate:
Medium-to-full bodied with smooth, rounded tannins. Dark berry fruit dominates - think plum, blackberry and blackcurrant - supported by gentle spice, dark chocolate and a touch of savoury earthiness. The wine carries a soft but defined acidity that keeps the palate fresh and balanced.
Finish:
Lingering and supple, with notes of plum, cocoa and light oak spice fading gradually.
- Food Pairing : The generous fruit and soft tannin structure of Carmen Stevens Merlot 2022 make it a versatile partner at the table. It pairs particularly well with grilled lamb chops with rosemary, where the wine’s dark fruit complements the savoury richness of the meat. A slow-cooked beef stew or Karoo lamb potjie works equally well, as the wine’s rounded texture matches the depth of flavour in braised dishes. For something lighter, mushroom risotto or aubergine parmigiana highlights the wine’s earthy undertones while the acidity keeps the pairing fresh. Even a mature cheddar or Gouda can bring out the Merlot’s subtle cocoa and spice notes.
- Drink before: Cellaring potential: 5–8 years from vintage.
- Vintage: 2022
- Manufacturer: Carmen Stevens
- Region: Stellenbosch, Western Cape
- Star Rating: Wine-of-the-Month Club’s Panel Rating: 3 Stars
- Medals Won: Taransaud Top 10 Merlot 2025: Winner.
- Sugar Content: 2.6g/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
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.