ULTRA-ELEGANT and beautifully mellowed Merlot and Syrah from the outstanding 2017 vintage are the first Steenberg red wines to make their debut with a new sophisticated look. Giving prominence to the iconic swan that signifies the quality and esteem upheld by Steenberg Vineyards since 1682, the stylish new labels have a timeless, yet contemporary aesthetic.
The smooth-as-velvet Steenberg Merlot 2017 is perfect for enjoying by the fire or paired with home-style comfort food. Elegant and juicy, teeming with concentrated soft red fruit and hints of vanilla, cedar and clove, this is a lively Merlot of distinctive character. Red cherry and redcurrant entice the nose, while the palate reveals a mouthful of sour cherry, coffee and spice.
Crafted for the long haul from vines on the cool Steenberg foothills, the 2017 vintage matured for 18 months in new and older French oak barrels. The result is a vibrant wine with the tannins and acidity perfectly intertwined.
The gracious Steenberg Syrah 2017 is a medium-bodied, delicate black fruit and spice driven wine. Whiffs of dried prune, cloves, plums and cherry sherbet set the scene for a silky textured palate of soft, fine tannins and well integrated acidity. The wine owes its refined elegance to 15 months’ maturation in new and older French oak barrels.
The generosity and rounded texture of both these Steenberg reds makes them particularly food friendly: “Rich, smooth and heartwarming from our prized cool climate Constantia vineyards – nothing beats these wines when it comes to winter comfort food,” says Steenberg cellar master Elunda Basson.
There has never been a better time to replenish your winter wine stocks. Steenberg Merlot 2017 and Steenberg Syrah 2017 are available at a cellar door price of R190 and R205 respectively. For more information or online purchases, click here or join the conversation by following @SteenbergWines on Twitter or @SteenbergFarm on Facebook and Instagram.
