169c834481f218db09cda7b705276421

Excelsior Robertson Merlot

£18.11
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169c834481f218db09cda7b705276421

Excelsior Robertson Merlot

Red Wine | 2023 | 14.50% | 75 cl | South Africa

Dry Red Wine 2023 Merlot offers a plush, velvety texture with rich notes of black cherry, plum, and blackberry, balanced by smooth tannins and subtle spice. Its approachable yet layered complexity makes it perfect for both casual sipping and pairing with diverse dishes.

£18.11
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Description

Indulge in the rich heritage and exquisite quality of the Excelsior Robertson Merlot 2023, a remarkable red wine crafted in the heart of South Africa's Breede River Valley. The limestone-rich soils of this prestigious region not only support lush viticulture but also impart unique flavor profiles to the grapes, resulting in a Merlot that exemplifies finesse and character.

This finely crafted wine presents an inviting spectrum of tasting notes that will captivate the palate:

  • Nose: Experience a vibrant medley of ripe black cherry and plum, intricately layered with hints of blueberry and cedar, complemented by whispers of fresh earth and menthol for a complex aroma that evokes the lush undergrowth of its terrain.
  • Palate: The velvety, medium-bodied texture unfolds with elegant layers of ripe plum and blackberry, smoothly intertwined with gentle oak spice. Balancing polished tannins enhance the experience, leading to a lingering soft cocoa finish.
  • Finish: A smooth and enduring finale where ripe black cherry and plum flavors meld with velvety tannins, leaving a plush warmth gently fading with elegant spice.

This 2023 Merlot is a perfect companion for various occasions. Its approachable yet layered complexity makes it ideal for:

  • Serving slightly chilled at 14-16°C to enhance fresh berry notes, especially delightful on warm evenings.
  • Pairing with grilled pork belly glazed with cherry or plum sauce to complement the wine’s fruit character.
  • Creating a deconstructed charcuterie board featuring smoked duck slices, aged Manchego, and caramelized walnuts for an elevated tasting experience.
  • Utilizing as a base in a red wine-poached pear dessert, infused with cinnamon and star anise, served with mascarpone cream.
  • Decanting for 30 minutes prior to serving to refine tannins and enhance mouthfeel, garnished with a thin orange twist for a mild citrus lift.

Enjoy the smooth, velvety character and sophisticated flavor profile of Excelsior Robertson Merlot 2023, crafted for those who appreciate the finer things in life.

Tasting notes

A dry red wine with a smooth, velvety character that balances rich dark fruit flavors and subtle tannins, offering a well-rounded and approachable drinking experience.

Nose

The nose reveals a vibrant medley of ripe black cherry and plum, layered with subtle whispers of blueberry and cedar, underscored by a delicate hint of fresh earth and menthol. These aromas meld seamlessly, evoking a sense of rich undergrowth softened by a touch of baking spice.

Palate

Velvety and medium-bodied, it unfolds with ripe plum and blackberry layers smoothly intertwined with gentle oak spice, balanced by polished tannins and a lingering, soft cocoa finish.

Finish

A smooth, enduring finish unfolds with ripe black cherry and plum, softened by velvety tannins and a whisper of cocoa, leaving a plush warmth that gently fades with elegant spice.

Key features
Grape Variety Proportions 100% Merlot
Producer Excelsior
ABV 14.50%
Bottle Size 75 cl
Country South Africa
Region Breede River Valley
Vintage 2023
Closure Stelvin Lux

Dietary Notes

  • Vegetarian
  • Vegan
Serving suggestions

- Serve slightly chilled at 14-16°C (57-61°F) to bring out fresh berry notes especially enjoyable on a warm evening.

- Present in large-bowled glasses to allow gentle swirling and aroma release; add a small sprig of fresh herbs like rosemary on the stem or rim for a subtle aromatic hint.

- Pair with grilled pork belly glazed with cherry or plum sauce to complement the wine’s fruit character while balancing richness.

- Create a deconstructed charcuterie board featuring smoked duck slices aged Manchego black olives and caramelized walnuts for an elevated tasting.

- Use as a base in a red wine-poached pear dessert infused with cinnamon and star anise—serve with a dollop of mascarpone cream.

- For a casual twist chill and mix gently with sparkling water a splash of elderflower cordial and a few frozen berries for a refreshing low-alcohol spritzer.

- Ideal for intimate dinners or fireside conversations offer with a small fondue pot of melted gouda or raclette cheese spiced with black pepper and nutmeg for dipping crusty bread.

- Try decanting for 30 minutes before serving to refine tannins and enhance mouthfeel then garnish the glass rim with a thin orange twist for a mild citrus lift.

Storage advice

For Red Wine (specifically a medium-bodied type like Merlot) the optimal storage recommendations are:

- Temperature: Store consistently between 55°F and 65°F (13°C to 18°C) ideally around 57°F to 60°F as Merlot falls into the medium red category. Avoid fluctuations and extreme temperatures above 70°F or below 45°F as these can prematurely age or damage the wine.

- Light Exposure: Minimize exposure to light especially direct sunlight and fluorescent lighting to prevent degradation of aroma and flavor compounds. Store in a dark environment or use incandescent lighting if artificial light is present.

- Sealing: Ensure the original cork or sealing mechanism remains intact and airtight to prevent oxidation. For opened bottles reseal promptly with a wine stopper or vacuum seal to slow oxidation.

- Bottle Position: Store bottles horizontally to keep the cork moist preventing it from drying out and shrinking which can cause air to enter.

- Humidity: Maintain relative humidity between 50% and 70% to keep corks from drying and to avoid mold growth. Use a humidifier or dehumidifier as needed based on local climate conditions.

- Special Tips for Opened Bottles: After opening red wine is best consumed within 3-5 days. Reseal tightly and store in a cool dark place or refrigerate it to slow oxidation and preserve quality.

These guidelines will best preserve the wine’s quality and aging potential whether unopened or after opening.

Disclaimer

Please be aware that the vintage and other product information provided on our website or in our materials for both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages is based on data supplied by the manufacturers and distributors. While we strive for accuracy, this information may occasionally be outdated or incorrect due to updates or changes made by the suppliers that have not yet been communicated to us.

Therefore, we cannot guarantee the absolute accuracy of the vintage, product descriptions, or other details provided.

Crucially, for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding allergens, ingredients, nutritional content, and specific product details, we strongly advise you to ALWAYS carefully check the product labels on the physical bottle or packaging you receive.

Supplier information is subject to change without our direct knowledge, and discrepancies may occur. We are committed to providing the best possible service and information, but the responsibility for verifying critical details, especially those related to health, allergies, and dietary requirements, rests with the consumer upon receipt of the product.

By proceeding with your purchase, you acknowledge that you have read and understood this disclaimer and agree that we shall not be held liable for any inaccuracies in the vintage or other product information provided that originated from our suppliers.

Thank you for your understanding.

Drink aware

Savor our exceptional drinks responsibly. The misuse of alcohol has serious consequences. For guidance visit https://www.drinkaware.co.uk/

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