#134 Merwida Barbera 2019

Barbera at lower concentration is often accused of presenting over bearing acid and a complete lack of structure. This clever little bit of winemaking from the Breedekloof-based Merwida Estate delivers a lighter styled Barbera that manages to balance gentle red fruit, with riper black fruit and some seductive oak elements.

Breedekloof itself is known largely for its bulk white wine, but there is an emerging gang of smaller producers (including the likes of Olifantsberg, Jason’s Hill Winery, Opstal Estate & Merwida…amongst others) who are focusing on high quality Chenin Blanc and some niche cultivars (like this Barbera). It is also a region that is home to some of the oldest vineyard blocks in the country.

🔬 These vines are 15 years old and yield roughly 8 ton/ha.  The wine was fermented in stainless steel tanks at 24°C for 10 days.  Matured for 12 months in 1st, 2nd and 3rd fill in French oak.