2015 Meerlust Merlot

The 2015 Merlot was matured for 16 months in 50% new and 50% second-fill oak. It has quite a compact bouquet of black cherries, mulberry and light minty aromas, and the oak is nicely integrated (for once, given how many other producers mishandle oak with regard to this variety in the Cape). The palate is well balanced with just a touch of dark chocolate on the entry, fine tannins and a smooth, rather savory finish. It is definitely one of the better Merlots from South Africa and it should age well over several years.