Merlot “Founders” 2021 – Swartland Winery

The grapes to produce Merlot “Founders” Swartland Winery were harvested at optimum phenolic ripeness, cold soaked for three days after and then inoculated with a commercial yeast strain. The Merlot “Founders” Swartland Winery fermentation took place at 26°C with four to six pump overs per day to optimise flavour and colour extraction. After the fermentation, the wines were filtered and bottled to ensure freshness. The Swartland name originates from a description of the indigenous “renosterbos” or rhino bush, which appears to turn black, (“Swart” in Afrikaans), during the summer months. This hot, dry climate has an average temperature range of 25°C to 35°C and an annual rainfall of 450 mm and 600mm, but the altitude of these vineyards creates a cool oasis in this arid landscape. Minimal intervention and environmentally friendly farming practices are paramount. 80% of the vineyards are small bush vines with an average yield of six tonnes per hectare; the quality of fruit is exceptional.