Product details
De Grendel Merlot is sourced from Merlot vineyards planted on Hutton Oak Leaf soils at about 200 meters above sea level on the slopes of Tygerberg, just a few kilometers from the Atlantic. The grapes are hand-harvested, vinified in stainless-steel tanks using gentle “aerated pump‑over” fermentation, and then matured for around 13 months in French oak barrels (approximately 15% new). The 2020 vintage, for example, has deep ruby colour with an opulent nose of red plums, cassis, walnuts, bramble, and a floral violet note; on the palate it shows red-plum fruit, herbal nuance, fine acid, and soft integrated tannins.
De Grendel Merlot stands out for its balance of fresh coastal influence and warm-climate richness. Its carefully managed oak ageing gives structure without overshadowing the fruit, and its elegant texture makes it both accessible now and worthy of modest ageing.
