From the heart of the Swartland, where relentless winds and dry air define the landscape, winter wheat and old bushvine vineyards shape a wild frontier. A European wine writer once compared this arid region to the American Wild West because only the hardiest vines survive here. On rugged, sea-facing hills, winemakers created Tumbleweed Merlot to capture this pioneering spirit and reflect the raw, unyielding beauty of the region.
- Fermentation: The grapes go directly into red wine fermenters.
- Extraction: Cellar teams perform 4 to 6 pump-overs daily during the first 3 to 4 days to gently extract color and flavor. They reduce this to 2 pump-overs daily until fermentation finishes.
- Purity: The team isolates only the free-run juice, completely avoiding harsh press fractions to protect the wine’s elegance.
- Maturation: The juice undergoes malolactic fermentation in full tanks before racking and sulphuring. Finally, a portion of the wine ages on French oak staves for 4 to 6 months.
This red pairs beautifully with roasted poultry, herb-crusted lamb, or creamy mushroom pasta. Casual Classics: Its soft profile complements tomato-based dishes like ratatouille or a fresh Margherita pizza. Light Platters: Enjoy a glass alongside a fresh beetroot and goat cheese salad or a curated charcuterie board.