About the Wine
From the warm, structured landscapes of Wellington in South Africa, this Merlot reflects a style that balances generosity with savoury depth. Wellington Wines has long focused on producing approachable yet character-driven reds, and the 2023 vintage continues this direction. Aged in French oak for 12 months, the wine brings together ripe fruit, subtle oak influence, and a distinctly savoury edge that sets it apart from purely fruit-forward Merlots.
Tasting Experience
Colour
Dense, opaque ruby red.
Aroma & Palate
The nose opens with dark hedgerow fruit and ripe plum, layered with chocolate, oak spice, and a distinctive savoury note of black olive paste. On the palate, the wine delivers a smooth, mouth-filling entry, with dark berry fruit supported by savoury complexity. The balance between fruit and savouriness gives the wine both depth and drinkability.
Body
Medium to full-bodied with rounded texture.
Finish
Lingering and satisfying, with dark berry fruit and subtle savoury tones.
Why This Wine Matters
Merlot is often positioned as soft and easy, but this Wellington expression introduces a more layered, savoury dimension. The integration of oak, fruit, and natural acidity creates a wine that performs equally well on its own or with food. For Singapore drinkers, it offers a versatile red that bridges casual drinking and structured dining—reliable, expressive, and accessible.
Food Pairings
International
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Grilled red meats
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Lamb dishes
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Risotto
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Pizza
Singapore / Regional
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Chargrilled meats
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Beef-based dishes
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Claypot rice
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Savoury pasta dishes
Awards & Recognition
Recognised as a well-balanced, food-friendly Merlot from Wellington, appreciated for its integration of fruit, oak, and savoury complexity.
Technical Details
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Vintage | 2023 |
| Grape Varietals | Merlot |
| Region / Sub-Region | Wellington, South Africa |
| Winery | Wellington Wines |
| Alcohol % | 14% |
| Fermentation / Vinification | Structured vinification with integrated tannins and fresh acidity |
| Maturation | 12 months in French oak barrels |
| Colour | Dense ruby red |
| Aroma | Dark hedgerow fruit, plum, chocolate, oak spice, black olive |
| Palate | Smooth entry, dark berry fruit, savoury complexity |
| Body | Medium to full-bodied |
| Acidity | Fresh (TA: 6.0 g/L) |
| Tannins | Integrated |
| Serving Temperature | 14–18°C |
| Aging Potential | 3–6 years |
| Delivery | Singapore islandwide |
Closing Line
A Merlot that balances ripeness with savoury depth and structure.