Keermont Merlot 2020

Stellenbosch, South Africa

Wine Advocate 92 points! Tim Atkin 90 points!

Keermont Vineyards is in a natural amphitheater between the Stellenbosch and Helderberg Mountains, with vineyards climbing 400 meters above sea level. Keermont’s breathtaking vineyards are on various pockets of multifarious soils thanks to the Blaauwklippen River, which runs in the middle of the estate. Each parcel receives cooling winds from the Atlantic Ocean and False Bay. Keermont’s winemaker (and rising star), Alex Starey, grew up down the road and would accompany his dad, the manager, who sold wine grapes to the neighboring cellars. Alex remains at the helm of the 28HA estate dedicated to sustainable viticulture and protects 100HA for conservation.

“Made with splashes of Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2020 Merlot is bright, plummy and herbal with notes of wild brush with dark cherry compote and oak spices. Full-bodied, juicy and layered with a firm tannic grip, the palate is complex with mouthwatering acidity that glides to a delightfully long, spicy finish. It's an excellent representation of South African wild brush and herbal essences. Just under 12,000 bottles made. Drink 2023-2033.”—Anthony Mueller, Wine Advocate, 92 points!

“Reflecting the heat spikes of the 2020 vintage, this is the fuller bodied of the two current Merlot releases from Keermont. Sweet, ripe and concentrated, it has notes of mulberry and raspberry jam, textured, supple tannins and deftly integrated older oak. 2024-30.”—Tim Atkin 90 points!

Enjoy Keermont Merlot with veal chops, roast pork, creamy pastas and aged cheeses.