Merlot

Merlot complements a range of dishes, from crispy panko-crusted pork served with a tangy mustard cream sauce to roasted tomato pasta with fresh basil and Parmesan. For a casual pairing, try a juicy beef burger layered with sharp cheddar.

The vineyards were given a green harvest at véraison to ensure evenly ripe fruit. Picking was decided by tasting, thereby ensuring optimal ripeness.

18 months 40% new French oak, balance older French oak.

All grapes were handpicked and sorted in the vineyard, transported to the cellar, destemmed and lightly crushed. An extended maceration took place, followed by fractional pressing. After settling, the wine went to French oak for malolactic fermentation.

Hartenberg is a historic Stellenbosch wine estate established in 1692 on the slopes of the Bottelary Hills. Known particularly for Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon, the estate combines regenerative viticulture with a long-term commitment to its vineyards, producing structured South African wines shaped by site and careful farming.