2020 Melcks Blended Red, Muratie

Velvet Red

This is Stellenbosch red with history in its bones and easy comfort in the glass. A blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Shiraz, it opens with red berries, plum, black cherry and raspberry, before white pepper, mocha, chocolate, soft spice and gentle oak begin to gather. It is medium-bodied, polished and made for everyday pleasure rather than ceremony.

The palate is smooth, supple and nicely balanced, with bright red fruit, soft tannins and a savoury, lightly spicy finish. There is enough structure to feel grown-up, but the charm is in its warmth and ease. Think berry fruit, pepper, chocolate and old Cape character, all wrapped in a mellow, food-friendly frame.

For when you want a proper red that does not need a special occasion.
Pairs with roast beef, lamb chops, mushroom pie, pasta ragù, grilled sausages, burgers, hard cheeses, or a braai with good friends.
If this wine were… a table, it would be old Cape wood, polished by generations of stories, with red berries, spice and candlelight scattered across it.

Muratie is one of South Africa’s oldest wine estates, dating back to 1685 and tucked into the Knorhoek Valley north of Stellenbosch. Today it is under the stewardship of the Melck family, who have kept the estate’s sense of history, character and family at the heart of the wines. Melck’s Blended Red reflects that spirit: estate-grown, unpretentious, well-crafted and made for sharing.