Merlot is taken seriously at Marianne, shaped by the estate’s right-bank Bordeaux heritage and a clear focus on structure and longevity. The 2021 vintage delivers a refined, composed expression of Simonsberg Paarl fruit.
On the nose, expect layers of black and blue fruit with a subtle lift of dried cranberry. The palate is expressive and full, showing ripe red and dark berries, gentle spice, and a touch of chocolate, all carried through to a long, savory finish. Elegant, round, and quietly powerful, this is a Merlot with both immediate appeal and the balance to reward cellaring.
On the nose, expect layers of black and blue fruit with a subtle lift of dried cranberry. The palate is expressive and full, showing ripe red and dark berries, gentle spice, and a touch of chocolate, all carried through to a long, savory finish. Elegant, round, and quietly powerful, this is a Merlot with both immediate appeal and the balance to reward cellaring.
Upon crushing, a temperature of 10 °C was maintained and both skins and juice were left in contact in French oak tanks for 10 days. Varying from stainless steel, this approach provides improved color and flavor stability. Upon fermentation, flavor and color is allowed to develop for a period of 4 weeks before the wine is transferred to 40% new and 60% second and third fill French oak barrels for 16-22 months.
The use of new French oak allows the wine to retain certain flavors and extract tannin from the oak, resulting in a fuller mid pallet. By using only 40% new oak, the fruits within the wine are respected ensuring the wine is complex yet settled with great ageing potential
The use of new French oak allows the wine to retain certain flavors and extract tannin from the oak, resulting in a fuller mid pallet. By using only 40% new oak, the fruits within the wine are respected ensuring the wine is complex yet settled with great ageing potential
Marianne Wine Estate brings a distinctive French influence to the slopes of Stellenbosch’s Simonsberg. Founded by a Bordeaux family, the estate focuses on small-batch wines that balance structure, freshness, and site expression. From refined Sauvignon Blanc and rosé to polished Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, and Cape Blends, these wines reflect careful vineyard work and thoughtful winemaking. Elegant yet grounded in Cape terroir, Marianne’s collection offers depth without excess. Explore the range and experience a boutique Stellenbosch estate with unmistakable character.
