Vondeling Barrel Selection Merlot 2017 Voor-Paardeberg

Merlot 100%

A steep, south west orientation granite slope known as Spice Block is the source of grapes for this wine. The vines are 20 years old and the size of the crop is controlled to optimise flavours. Grapes are chilled on arrival at the winery then gently destemmed before cold soaking for 2 days, during which the fermentation with natural yeasts begins. A proportion of the grapes are crushed, the remainder added whole to the open topped fermentation vessel. Hand plunging and a period of maceration on the skins for one week after fermentation is complete aid extraction and harmonising of flavours and tannins. The wine is transferred to 300 Litre French oak barrels for malolactic fermentation. After racking, the wine is returned to the barrels for a further 12 months aging, before bottling.

Vondeling wines are based in Voor-Paardeberg in the Western Cape, 45 minutes drive from Cape Town. The vineyards are primarily on the South-facing slopes of the Paardeberg Mountain. The decomposed granite soil and afternoon south westerly winds allow the wines to develop freshness and vibrancy for a warm climate area.