This merlot displays notes of grilled meat, black plum, coffee, soy sauce, spice and tar.

Service: Serve at 15-20°C.

Food Pairing: Excellent with beef, game, lamb, pasta in tomato sauce, poultry and vegetarian dishes.

Winemaker Nic van Aarde joined the winery in 2018. A business and commerce graduate turned winemaker, Nic has an extensive record of successful harvests across the globe, spanning regions such as New Zealand, France, Australia and California. Residing on the farm alongside his wife and two daughters, he has an in-depth understanding of the terroir, the distinct vineyard blocks, and the unique manner in which the valley influences the character and quality of the wines produced.

“My mission is to ‘let the terroir talk’ by allowing our mysterious site to fully show and express itself. This is achieved by picking the grapes at optimal ripeness, minimal manipulation in the cellar and gentle extraction to produce balanced, elegant wines” says Nic.

Situated in an elevated valley of outstanding beauty, the 30 hectare Oldenburg Vineyards is surrounded by a spectacular mountain amphitheatre, only 8 kilometres from Stellenbosch on the road to Franschhoek. At the heart of the farm lies Rondekop – the iconic, round hill which influences the vineyards planted on and around it, creating an extraordinary terroir. The location benefits from the confluence of 8 natural elements allowing the team to make wines that truly reflect their Place.

1* Up & Coming
Oldenburg Vineyards, situated in the Banghoek Valley near Stellenbosch, South Africa, demonstrates a commitment to sustainability through their unique approach to winemaking and deep understanding of the terroir. The winery emphasises the importance of allowing the terroir to express itself, achieved through optimal grape ripeness, minimal cellar manipulation, and gentle extraction. They are also practising organic viticulture, although they are not certified, and do not use any animal products, making their wines vegan-friendly (uncertified). Their vineyards are strategically placed in an elevated position in the mountains, benefiting from natural elements that contribute to a unique climate, referred to as "The 8 Elements." Oldenburg Vineyards values the quality of their wines and the protection of their environment. They take pride in their ancient soils, which provide water retention and deep root penetration. With a focus on natural processes and respect for the land, their aim is to produce exceptional, balanced, and elegant wines. The winery's mission is encapsulated in their dedication to creating "Exceptional Wines from an Extraordinary Place," reflecting their commitment to sustainability and the preservation of their remarkable terroir.

Red | Dry | Still | 75cl | 14% ABV

Cellaring: Ready to drink now.

Vinification: Grapes were harvested and sorted carefully by hand, and cold-soaked for three days before fermentation was initiated. Pumpovers were performed three times daily. Wines were matured for 19 months in 300l French oak barrels in 15% new oak.

• Organic - Practising (Uncertified)
• Vegan - Practising (Uncertified)