Glenelly, Glass Collection Merlot, 2019
Glenelly, Glass Collection Merlot, 2019
- Red Still
- 75CL
- 14.5%
- Merlot
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Glenelly's Glass Collection Merlot represents the estate's accessible yet refined approach to this noble variety. From prime Stellenbosch vineyards, this 2019 vintage delivers the plush fruit character Merlot lovers seek, balanced by subtle French oak integration that speaks to the winery's Bordeaux heritage.
The wine shows immediate appeal with its supple texture and dark fruit core, yet possesses enough structure to reward careful cellaring until 2032. A perfect introduction to Glenelly's style, combining New World generosity with Old World restraint.
Currently showing primary dark fruit character with integrated oak, this Merlot will develop further complexity over the next 2-3 years as tannins soften and fruit flavours integrate. Secondary savoury characteristics should emerge around 2028, adding leather and earth to the fruit core. The wine will likely plateau between 2029-2031, maintaining fruit freshness whilst showing mature complexity. Beyond 2032, expect gradual decline as fruit begins to fade, though the wine may surprise with longevity given the vintage quality.
Tasting Notes
AppearanceDeep ruby red with purple highlights, showing good concentration and clarity.
NoseRich blackberry and dark plum dominate, supported by cedar and vanilla from well-integrated oak. Subtle violet and herb de Provence add complexity, whilst a touch of graphite provides mineral backbone.
PalateSoft entry with velvety tannins carrying dark fruit flavours across the mid-palate. Good weight and texture balance bright acidity, whilst oak spices add structure without overwhelming the fruit core. The wine shows typical Merlot approachability whilst maintaining Stellenbosch character.
FinishMedium length with lingering chocolate and spice, supported by fine tannins.
Overall impressionA polished, accessible Merlot that delivers immediate pleasure whilst showing potential for short-term development.
Food Pairings
In Stellenbosch, this style of Merlot traditionally accompanies the Cape's renowned lamb, often slow-roasted with indigenous fynbos herbs like buchu and wild rosemary. Locals pair it with bobotie, the spiced mince dish topped with savoury custard, where the wine's soft tannins complement the warming spices. Game meats like springbok and kudu feature regularly, particularly when braised with sweet vegetables. The wine also suits potjiekos, the traditional three-legged pot stews that combine meat and vegetables over slow-burning coals.
We think this wine would go well with
Serve at 16-18°C to showcase the wine's fruit character whilst maintaining structure. Decant for 30 minutes if drinking now, though this is not essential given the wine's accessible nature. Use large Bordeaux glasses to concentrate aromatics whilst allowing the wine to breathe. The wine benefits from opening an hour before service to allow integration of fruit and oak elements.
The Glenelly vineyards sit on the lower slopes of the Simonsberg Mountain in Stellenbosch, benefiting from decomposed granite soils with good drainage. The south-facing aspect provides protection from harsh afternoon sun whilst morning exposure ensures optimal ripening. Cool evening breezes from False Bay help retain natural acidity, whilst the mountain backdrop creates a microclimate ideal for Bordeaux varieties.
Stellenbosch stands as South Africa's premier red wine region, with a Mediterranean climate moderated by ocean influence and mountain protection. The appellation encompasses diverse terroirs from granite slopes to alluvial valley floors, united by their suitability for Bordeaux varieties. Stellenbosch wines typically show more structure and ageability than other Cape regions, with producers increasingly focusing on site-specific expressions that rival their French counterparts.
The 2019 growing season in Stellenbosch proved challenging yet ultimately rewarding for producers who managed their vineyards with care. A particularly dry summer tested vine resilience, with water stress becoming a significant concern by February. However, the lack of rainfall also meant disease pressure remained minimal, allowing healthy fruit development where irrigation was available. Harvest timing became crucial as producers balanced concentration with freshness, with many opting for earlier picking windows to preserve acidity levels that might otherwise have been compromised by the intense conditions.
The vintage produced wines of notable concentration and structure, particularly benefiting Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz, which thrived despite the dry conditions. These red varieties show excellent colour saturation and firm tannin structure, though yields were naturally reduced. Chenin Blanc performed admirably, displaying the variety's renowned drought tolerance whilst maintaining its characteristic bright acidity. The 2019s are drinking well now but possess the backbone for medium to long-term cellaring, with the reds likely to reward patience over the next 8-12 years as their initially firm tannins integrate further.
FAQs
What makes Glenelly's winemaking approach distinctive?
Glenelly combines French Bordeaux expertise with South African terroir, emphasising minimal intervention winemaking and sustainable viticulture practices under the guidance of former Pichon Longueville owner May-Eliane de Lencquesaing.
How does this Merlot compare to Bordeaux equivalents?
The Glass Collection Merlot shows more upfront fruit character typical of warm climate Merlot, whilst maintaining the structural elegance associated with Bordeaux winemaking philosophy. It offers excellent value compared to similar quality Bordeaux wines.
Should I cellar this wine or drink it now?
The wine drinks beautifully now but will reward cellaring until 2032. Those preferring fruit-forward styles should drink by 2029, whilst those seeking complexity can hold longer for secondary development.
What food pairings work best with this style?
The wine's soft tannins and medium body suit roasted red meats, lamb dishes, and rich pasta sauces. Avoid overly spicy foods that might overwhelm the wine's elegance.
How does Stellenbosch terroir influence this Merlot?
The granite soils and mountain protection provide excellent drainage and temperature moderation, resulting in Merlot with more structure and ageability than warmer South African regions, whilst retaining generous fruit character.
What is the Glass Collection range about?
The Glass Collection represents Glenelly's accessible wines that showcase estate quality at approachable prices, offering an introduction to the winery's style whilst maintaining the elegance expected from this premium producer.
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