Adam Mason Merlot 2018
About the wine
A delightfully moreish Merlot straight from Stellenbosch
- The winemaking process behind this Merlot was kept as simple as possible, no crazy pump-over regime, just a focus on the gentle handling of the fruit and ageing of the wine in French oak casks for around 10 months.
- I've had my eye on this specific block for a while and I'm so glad to finally get my hands on the fruit. The close proximity of this vineyard to False Bay and the Atlantic ocean results in an early harvested crop, before the vines have started to bear any signs of heat-related stress - perfect for making juicy, fruity Merlot.
- Youthful in appearance, expect an explosion of dark fruits and a lovely chalky texture that's dangerously moreish, easy-drinking, and oh so smooth.
Adam Mason, Winemaker
Best before
Drink now to 2023
Serving advice
I know there are those of you who like to decant. So go ahead, let it breathe, give it some air. You won't regret it for a second.
Food match
As I type this out the air is still nippy, and there are a fair few cold fronts stacked up and yet to unload their winter rains. Traditionally this is the time for Potjie (much like your Denby Pot) stews and one of my favourites is what we call 'Water Blommetjie Bredie'. The Water Hyacinth is an indigenous lily growing in the Cape and flowering in winter. If you harvest it at just the right time, as the freshly fertilised flowers close and swell, it makes for a spicy accompaniment to stewing lamb. Served with white pepper and slow roast new potatoes, it is one of my all time winners.
Contains sulphites
Wine profile
Meet the winemaker - Adam Mason
- Adam has over 2 decades of winemaking experience under his belt. He spent 8 years at Klein Constantia - where he was responsible for Vin de Constance, one of the best sweet wines in the world. More recently, Adam was responsible for the revival of South Africa's prestigious Mulderbosch winery.
- Although most famous for his sweet wines, Adam is passionate about trying new varietals and techniques – and his knack for finding the perfect vineyard spot is uncanny!
- His hallmark? Carefully thought through, classy wines that are the perfect examples of their style, but also respect the uniqueness of site and vintage.
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