The
new vintage is a Shiraz-driven blend with the balance comprising Cabernet
Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot. Typical of the Plaisir de Merle wines,
the Petit Plaisir 2013 stands out for its ripe fruit flavours, soft tannins,
balance and integrated wood flavours.
“Our
aim with this wine is that it should excel even in its youth; being full and
complex enough to satisfy the tastes of even the serious red wine enthusiast,”
says winemaker Niel Bester. “Shiraz carries the typical soft and fruity red
berry flavours with slight spiciness, while Cabernet Sauvignon lends structure
and tannins. The Cabernet Franc and Merlot contribute typical fresh red berry
and floral fruitiness, giving extra dimension to the blend.”
The
wines were matured in 300-litre
barrels of 2-4 years of age. About 30% of the Shiraz was in American oak and
the remainder in French.
The
result is a worthy addition to the Plaisir de Merle portfolio.
The
farm, situated on east-facing slopes of the Simonsberg Mountain, between Paarl
and Franschhoek, dates back to 1687 and was purchased in 1964 by Stellenbosch
Farmers’ Winery (SFW), now part of Distell. Recognized for its potential,
Plaisir de Merle’s vines were planted under the direction of Paul Pontallier of
the famed Bordeaux wine estate Château Margaux.
The
diversity of soils, slopes and elevations have played a key role in Plaisir de
Merle’s success as a producer of fine wines. There are about 400ha of vineyards
on this 975ha farm, which is a member of the Biodiversity & Wine Initiative
(BWI).
The
well-drained, weathered granite soils with their good moisture retention
abilities, allow for the successful dryland cultivation of most of the vines.
“The
2013 harvest produced wines with beautiful, elegant fruit,” says Bester. “Good
tannin structure and composition realised lovely intense colour in the wine.
Individual wines show typical varietal character, with every component filling
out its role in the final blend.”
Outstanding
characteristics of the Petit Plaisir 2013 are the sweet red and dark berry
fruitiness of the Shiraz, supported by white pepper and spice on the nose. On
the palate there’s concentrated cherry, plum and red berry, and light, savoury
flavour notes. The sweet spice and vanilla flavours of the oak barrels bring
the wine components together in a long, lingering sweet and soft finish.
A
wine for any occasion, it is best enjoyed with a variety of meat and pasta
dishes that are rich and flavoursome.
The Plaisir de Merle Petit Plaisir 2013 is available at most leading retailers, from R89.00 per bottle.
Plaisir
de Merle is part of Cape Legends, an extensive collection of superlative quality, award-winning
wines from several boutique estates situated in and around the Cape
Winelands.
To
learn more about Plaisir de Merle, visit www.plaisirdemerle.co.za, call (021) 874 1071 or
send an email to info@plaisirdemerle.co.za.