Wine: Fish Hoek Merlot

Country: South Africa

Region: Western Cape

Designation: W.O. Western Cape

Producer: Fish Hoek

Grape Varietal: Merlot

ABV: 14%

Type: Red

Code: 2226

Tasting Note

This warm rich ruby red wine shows great complexity on the nose with bright red fruit. There is a mixture of dark red fruit and spicy undertones with well balanced structure which compliments the palate.

Producer

Fish Hoek is a little settlement just outside of Cape Town on the False Bay coast. It is blessed with a breathtaking beach, where the waves break for the first time in their previously unhindered journey from the Antarctic. Backed by Table Mountain, the locals enjoy the outdoors as a way of life - it is this spirit that is captured in Fish Hoek wines.

Winemaking

The Merlot grapes are from the vineyards of the Breedekloof region. The grapes are harvested at optimum ripeness, destemmed and crushed. Warm fermentation takes place in stainless steel vats with a few days of skin contact with frequent pump-overs every few hours. After a second malolactic fermentation, the wine undergoes oak exposure utilizing American and French oak staves to add gentle tannins and texture to the wine.

Fun Fact

Fish Hoek is a certified Fairtrade winery. This means that growers receive a guaranteed fair minimum price for their grapes. This ensures farmers are not exploited and can continue to work even in challenging years. Fairtrade also enables the winery to commit to sustainable practices ensuring the environment is protected, fair trading conditions are practiced, and it is involved in driving social change.

Food pairing

Ostrich fillet in red wine reduction sauce on a wild mushroom risotto.