Steenberg Merlot, Constantia

Established by Catharina Ras in 1682, Steenberg was the Cape’s first wine farm, located only 30 minutes from the heart of Cape Town. In 1695 Frederik Russouw bought the farm and it was passed down through the generations until 1990 when it was purchased by J.C.I (Johannesburg Consolidated Investments) and re-developed into the glorious vineyard and hotel it is today. Graham Beck bought Steenberg Hotel and Steenberg Winery in April 2005. Steenberg Hotel has since flourished into a luxury destination with an award-winning winery set amongst the estate’s astounding natural landscape.

Elegant with soft red fruit and characteristic notes of vanilla, cedar and clove with a lively edge. The nose offers red cherry and redcurrant, while the palate reveals sour cherry, coffee and spicy clove. The velvety texture is enhanced by refreshing acidity, while well-integrated tannins add structure. This fuller-bodied wine will stand up to rich dishes with strong Mediterranean flavours, such as braised and roast meats, tomato-based stews, mature cheeses and briny olives. Will bottle age well for five to seven years after bottling.