{"product_id":"dornier-merlot-2022","title":"Dornier Merlot 2022","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDornier lies on the foothills of the Stellenbosch Mountain in the Upper Blaauwklippen Valley, a spot known for its combination of decomposed granite soils, cooling afternoon breezes and reliable ripening. This area suits Merlot particularly well, giving wines with generous fruit but a clear line of freshness. Dornier’s approach is to farm sustainably, pick for balance rather than sheer ripeness, and handle the grapes gently in the cellar. Fermentation in stainless steel and careful maturation in oak are used to shape structure and complexity without overwhelming the fruit, resulting in a Merlot that feels polished yet honest, made with food and everyday drinking in mind. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eColour:\u003cbr\u003eDeep ruby with a youthful, purple-tinged rim and good intensity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNose:\u003cbr\u003eRipe plum and dark cherry lead the aromas, backed by blackberry, a hint of redcurrant, and subtle notes of cedar, baking spice and cocoa from time in oak.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePalate:\u003cbr\u003eMedium to full bodied with smooth, rounded tannins and a core of dark plum, cherry and cassis. The acidity is moderate, keeping the wine lively rather than heavy, while gentle oak spice, mocha and a touch of dried herb add complexity. The overall impression is supple and approachable, with enough structure to stand up to richer dishes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFinish:\u003cbr\u003eMedium-length, with lingering notes of plum, soft spice and a faint chocolatey nuance.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Wine-of-the-Month Club","offers":[{"title":"Red \/ Red Dry \/ 750ml Bottle","offer_id":45171713048755,"sku":"RW2228ME40","price":205.0,"currency_code":"ZAR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0713\/5195\/9731\/files\/product_69_1765370008_6939689860294.jpg?v=1765370212","url":"https:\/\/www.wineofthemonth.co.za\/products\/dornier-merlot-2022","provider":"Wine of the Month","version":"1.0","type":"link"}