The Meerlust Merlot 2005 is a very intense plum-black color with a ruby rim. The nose is varietally expressive with rich plum, mulberry and creamy fruit with hints of anise and spices. The palate is rich and opulent, bursting with ripe merlot fruit and supported by silky soft tannins. The wine has a long aftertaste, finishing with a dense sweetness of fruit. This wine can be aged up to 12 years in ideal cellar conditions. It pairs well with red meat, game and strong cheeses. Fermentation takes place in open steel tanks for seven days. After pressing, the wine is settled and undergoes malolactic fermentation in the tanks. It is then matured in 300-litre Nevers oak casks for 18 months and for 2 years in the bottle before release