{"product_id":"le-bonheur-merlot-2022","title":"Le Bonheur Merlot 2022","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"362\" data-end=\"833\"\u003eSituated on the slopes between the Simonsberg Mountains and Klapmuts Hill, \u003cspan class=\"hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"whitespace-normal\"\u003eLe Bonheur Wine Estate\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e is one of Stellenbosch’s longstanding heritage estates, with origins dating back to the 1700s. The estate’s elevated vineyards, varied slopes and decomposed granite soils create ideal growing conditions for Bordeaux varieties, particularly Merlot, for which Le Bonheur has built a strong reputation over several decades.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"362\" data-end=\"833\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"835\" data-end=\"1239\"\u003eLe Bonheur’s approach combines classic Stellenbosch structure with a softer, more approachable style. Older vineyard sites contribute depth and concentration, while careful fruit selection and restrained oak maturation help preserve varietal character and balance. The result is a Merlot that feels polished and expressive without becoming overly heavy or extracted.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"835\" data-end=\"1239\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1329\" data-end=\"1385\"\u003eColour:\u003cbr data-start=\"1340\" data-end=\"1343\"\u003eDeep ruby red with a youthful garnet edge.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1329\" data-end=\"1385\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1387\" data-end=\"1640\"\u003eNose:\u003cbr data-start=\"1396\" data-end=\"1399\"\u003eRipe plum, black cherry and mulberry aromas lead the nose, followed by softer notes of cocoa, cedar, vanilla pod and gentle spice. Subtle earthy undertones add complexity without overshadowing the fruit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1387\" data-end=\"1640\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1642\" data-end=\"1943\"\u003ePalate:\u003cbr data-start=\"1653\" data-end=\"1656\"\u003eMedium- to full-bodied with smooth tannins and a rounded texture. Dark berry fruit and plum flavours sit alongside hints of mocha, baking spice and oak spice. The wine carries enough freshness to keep the palate balanced and drinkable, while the structure gives it depth and persistence.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1642\" data-end=\"1943\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1945\" data-end=\"2050\"\u003eFinish:\u003cbr data-start=\"1956\" data-end=\"1959\"\u003eSoft and lingering with notes of black fruit, cocoa powder and savoury spice on the finish.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Le Bonheur","offers":[{"title":"750ml Bottle","offer_id":45509698781363,"sku":"RW2228ME44","price":120.0,"currency_code":"ZAR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0713\/5195\/9731\/files\/LeBonheurMerlot2022.jpg?v=1778851360","url":"https:\/\/www.wineofthemonth.co.za\/products\/le-bonheur-merlot-2022","provider":"Wine of the Month","version":"1.0","type":"link"}