Description
Groot Constantia Merlot 2023 is a structured Constantia red shaped by the estate’s cool maritime climate and granitic soils. It combines ripe fruit with firm tannins and bright acidity, giving the wine more definition than softness alone. The result is a polished Merlot with freshness, depth, and a restrained oak profile.
The nose opens with cherry, ripe plum, and dark berries, followed by subtle vanilla and dark chocolate. On the palate, juicy red fruit is supported by firm tannins and lively acidity, while extended French oak maturation adds spice, texture, and shape. The finish is composed and persistent. It would pair well with roast lamb, grilled beef, mushroom dishes, or tomato-based pasta.
This is a Merlot with immediate appeal, but its tannin structure and acidity should allow it to develop well over the next several years.
The nose opens with cherry, ripe plum, and dark berries, followed by subtle vanilla and dark chocolate. On the palate, juicy red fruit is supported by firm tannins and lively acidity, while extended French oak maturation adds spice, texture, and shape. The finish is composed and persistent. It would pair well with roast lamb, grilled beef, mushroom dishes, or tomato-based pasta.
This is a Merlot with immediate appeal, but its tannin structure and acidity should allow it to develop well over the next several years.
In the cellar
The grapes were hand-harvested at 25.5 to 26° Balling and fermented in stainless steel tanks with regular pump-overs. After fermentation, the wine remained on the skins for two weeks to build color, flavor, and tannin. Malolactic fermentation took place in stainless steel before the wine matured for 15 months in 225L French oak barrels, using 35% new oak, 30% second-fill, and 35% third-fill barrels. The vineyards are planted on granitic soils ranging from deep red clay to red-brown loam.
Winemaker: Daniel Keulder
Winemaker: Daniel Keulder
About the Winery
Groot Constantia is South Africa’s oldest wine estate, founded in 1685 by Simon van der Stel. Nestled in the historic Constantia Valley, this national monument produces award-winning estate wines that reflect centuries of craftsmanship and cool-climate terroir. Led by a mission to preserve cultural heritage, Groot Constantia offers visitors a rare blend of history, hospitality, and world-class winemaking.
