De Trafford | Merlot | 2017
De Trafford | Merlot | 2017
After working in Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux back in 1989, David Trafford was inspired by the great wines of the Right Bank to produce this Merlot. Since its first vintage in 1992, it has consistently been considered one of the best Merlots in the Western Cape. Grapes are handpicked from vines on clay rich soils ideally suited to Merlot on their Mont Fleur farm and their neighbouring farm Keermont. Spontaneous natural fermentation, 19 months in French oak (35% new), bottled unfined and unfiltered. De Trafford Merlots age extremely well and their last bottle of 1992 was still drinking well in 2017 so it’s up to you if you’d like to hold onto this one. 15% Alcohol.
Nose & Palate
Attractive deep red colour. Spices, dark fruits, and plum on the nose, with hints of fynbos (herbal) notes. Big fruit on the palate with fine firm tannins. Nice balance of fruit and spice aspects follow through to a long finish. Drink now to 2035.
Pairing
Ideal with veal, lamb, or pork, as well as a baked pasta.
Accolades
93 Points - Tim Atkin MW | 5 Stars (95 Points) - Platter’s SA Wine Guide
About the Winery
Great wines start with great vines. The hallmark of De Trafford is the effort spent growing ripe vines with a focus on yield, quality and sustainability, to produce truly outstanding wine.
Situated on the beautiful Mont Fleur farm, 380m up between the Stellenbosch and Helderberg mountains, the De Trafford winery was started in 1992 by former architect David Trafford and his wife Rita. After learning a great deal from local farmers in Stellenbosch and abroad in Bordeaux, David Trafford carefully chose varieties, clones and rootstocks to match the subtle soil and microclimate differences in the farm. Such careful attention to detail is carried through all facets of the growing and winemaking process at De Trafford - the result is seriously well structured and concentrated red wines which convey the personality and uniqueness of the mountain site.
