Niel Joubert – Merlot (VITIS VINIFERA 2025 Gold)

The nose reveals a vibrant medley of cranberry, raspberry, and beetroot, underscored boiled red sweets and a subtle hint of chocolate. The palate is delicately structured, with fine, mouthcoating tannins supporting a core of lush red fruit. A fresh acidity enhances its medium-bodied frame, lending a sense of elegance and drinkability. Flavours echo the aromatic profile, featuring a blend of red berry fruit, lifted by hints of fine herbs. The finish is impressively long, tapering off with notes of cocoa bean and a savoury touch reminiscent of tomato stew.

Serve with herb-crusted lamb chops, roast chicken with Mediterranean herbs, Margarita or mushroom pizza, pasta with tomato-based sauces, beetroot risotto, or a mushroom-and-lentil shepherd’s pie.