Stellenbosch Reserve Merlot 2023
Merlot
Description
Stellenbosch Reserve focuses on wines that express the character of the Stellenbosch region rather than a single farm. Vineyards are typically spread across well-known wards, drawing on decomposed granite and shale soils and the moderating influence of False Bay. This is prime red wine country, and Merlot in particular benefits from the warm days and cooling evening breezes that help ripen tannins while keeping a core of freshness. The winemaking approach is contemporary but measured: ripe fruit, careful extraction, and oak used to add shape and spice rather than dominate. Stellenbosch Reserve Merlot 2023 aims for supple texture, clear fruit and a dry, food-friendly finish – a Cape Merlot that nods to Bordeaux structure while remaining easy to enjoy.
Colour:
Deep ruby with a youthful purple edge, suggesting a young, fruit-forward Merlot.
Nose:
Plum and dark cherry lead the aromas, supported by blackberry and a touch of red berry brightness. Subtle notes of cocoa, vanilla and gentle baking spice hint at time in oak, with a light dried-herb or leafy nuance adding a bit of savoury complexity.
Palate:
Medium-bodied with smooth, rounded tannins and a plush, approachable texture. The palate follows the nose with ripe plum, black cherry and a touch of mulberry, lifted by moderate acidity that keeps the wine from feeling heavy. Soft notes of chocolate, coffee and spice sit in the background, giving extra interest without overt woodiness. Overall, it feels dry, polished and made with weeknight suppers and relaxed entertaining in mind.
Finish:
Medium in length with lingering dark fruit, a hint of cocoa and a gentle, spicy tail.
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Stellenbosch Reserve Merlot 2023
- Food Pairing : Stellenbosch Reserve Merlot 2023 has soft tannins and comfortable richness, making it very versatile at the table. It works well with braaied pork chops, boerewors or burgers, where the ripe fruit and gentle structure handle char and fat without needing a heavy sauce. It’s a good partner for tomato-based pasta, bolognese, lasagne or a mid-week beef stew, as the acidity keeps the dishes from feeling too rich. For lighter options, try roast chicken, mushroom risotto or a pizza with ham and olives – the wine’s plush fruit and subtle spice complement savoury flavours without overpowering them.
- Drink before: Drink now to 2029, with best drinking from 2025–2028.
- Vintage: 2023
- Manufacturer: Rust en Vrede
- Region: Stellenbosch
- Sugar Content: 2.1g/L
- Alcohol Content:14.16%
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.
