Steenberg Constantia

Merlot, 2022

750ml
In stock: 19 bottles
$36
Adding to cart… The item has been added
Varietal Composition: Merlot (100%)
RS: 1.8 g/l
Cellaring Potential: 5 - 7 years
ABV: 14.73%

Description

Elegant and expressive, this cool-climate Merlot from Constantia is a masterclass in balance and depth. Aromas of cedarwood, lavender, and plum draw you in, while the palate reveals lush mulberry, raspberry preserve, and a hint of spicy clove. A supple texture is lifted by bright acidity and fine tannins, leading to a dry, lingering finish. Enjoy with roast meats, tomato-based stews, or aged cheeses. A collectible red with 5–7 years of cellaring potential.
We focused on intensifying flavor and structure from the vineyard through to the cellar. After careful crop thinning and suckering to boost fruit quality and color, the Merlot was harvested at optimal ripeness. We drew off 15% of the juice pre-fermentation to further concentrate flavor and hue. After 10–14 days on skins at 28°C, the wine underwent malolactic fermentation before aging in seasoned French oak for 24 months. Bottled with minimal fining to preserve purity.

Winemaker: Elunda Basson
Steenberg holds the distinction of being the oldest farm in the picturesque Constantia Valley, which is generally considered to be South Africa’s premier wine growing region. With its cool, sea-facing slopes and majestic granite ridges, this vineyard has developed a worldwide reputation for producing excellent Cape wines. The estate boasts a state of the art modern winery, producing some of the country’s finest award-winning wines.

* Prior vintage described.

Flavor Profiles

plum

Plum

cedar

Cedar

lavender

Lavender

cloves

Cloves

In the cellar

About the Winery

Location

Constantia, South Africa

Constantia, South Africa

Constantia Valley is the oldest wine-growing region in Southern Africa with winemaking dating back to 1685. Nestled between ancient soils and cooled by refreshing sea breezes, the vineyards thrive without much need for irrigation due to the region’s abundant annual rainfall. These ideal growing conditions and gentle temperatures create a perfect environment for producing elegant and world-renowned wines. Discover the rich heritage and exceptional flavors that have made Constantia Valley a cornerstone of South African winemaking for centuries.