Merlot Reserve 2012

Vergelegen, teknisk ark/fact sheet (vergelegen.co.za – linket fra vergelegen.co.za, hentet 2026-10-18): 2012 Vergelegen Merlot Reserve; 86% Merlot, 9% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Petit Verdot; alkohol 14.5%. Producentens noter (engelsk): Tech sheet: RESERVE MERLOT 2012 Origin The grapes were all selected from the Vergelegen vineyards; the Merlot from Rooiland and Stonepine. Vinification The fruit was picked at peak physiological ripeness to avoid the necessity of adding acid and prevent the extraction of hard tannins. Picking took place from 6 to 19 March 2012. The grape juice was inoculated with two yeast strains, D21 and D254. Fermentation took place at a consistent 25°C. The young wine was left to macerate on its skins for a further 7 weeks before pressing. Malolactic fermentation was induced in stainless steel tanks and was followed by maturation in 225l French oak barrels for 16 months before bottling on 13 October 2013. The vintage amounted to 51,977 bottles. Composition 86% Merlot 9% Cabernet Sauvignon 5% Petit Verdot Analysis 14.48% Alc 2.6 g/l RS 5.7 g/l TA 3.42 pH Maturation Accessible now but will continue to improve over the next decade. Tasting Note Ripe plum colour with a ruby rim. The nose shows ripe fruit flavours, black cherries, plum, spice and a touch of chocolate. The ripeness of the fruit is balanced by fresh fruit acidity with soft wood and fruit tannins. The aftertaste is long and lasting.