Holden Manz Merlot Reserve 2021

The 2021 harvest was approx. 2 weeks later than normal due to cooler weather throughout the season, which persisted through harvest time and expressed itself with vines of higher acidity. The season produced strong vine growth, good bunch and berry sizes—dark garnet with a bright red rim. 

Black cherry dominates with blackberry, subtle cedar, fynbos and wild fig. Full bodied. Black cherries and plum on entry with a complex mid-palate and a mocha finish – very moreish! Soft round tannins with long velvety fruity finish. 

Harvested between 11th and 14th March 2021 compared with the 20th March and 3rd April for the 2020 vintage. Hand-selected bunches underwent individual berry selection to ensure only the best fruit was fermented. 100% of the fruit was fermented as berries in stainless steel tank. All fermentation was spontaneous (wild) with no commercial yeast added. 27 days post-fermentation maceration. Matured for 22 months in 70% new French oak barrels. Bottled 10 May 2023. Limited production of 121 x 1.5l magnum bottles and 3,033 750ml bottles. A classic merlot which will continue to develop for the next 7-10 years.

Best end rack of new season lamb, baby new potatoes, fresh garden peas and a touch of mint. Alternatively, an aged Comté with freshly baked sourdough bread.