Thelema Merlot Reserve 2021

The grapes were gently de-stemmed, retaining as many whole berries as possible, before passing over an additional vibrating table to remove all MOG (matter other than grapes), after which a displacement pump takes the fruit to its fermentation tank. The tanks are then inoculated with a specific commercial yeast strain, this way insuring the development of the perfect flavour profile. Fermentation is done in stainless steel fermenters, and a combination of aerative pump overs and punch down techniques are used to ensure optimal colour, tannin and flavour extraction. Once fermentation is complete the wine is drained off the skins and moved to a holding tank to be barreled down. Malolactic fermentation takes place in the barrels.

Wet, cool climate conditions allowed replenishment of water reserves and slow ripening period. Despite the smaller yields, the harvest season produced outstanding quality berries resulting in great wines with respectable aging potential. The flavours and fruit concentration are particularly evident, as the red cultivars achieved ultimate alcohol and sugar levels.

18 months

Merlot

Perfect for pairing with dishes like seared duck breast, mushroom risotto, or aged Gruyà¨re.

Greg Sherwood MW – 96 points
Platter’s Wine Guide 2024 – 4.5 stars / 94 points
Tim Atkin South Africa Special Report 2023 – 95 points

Gyles Webb abandoned his accounting career in Durban to become a winemaker. In 1983, with the help of his wife’s family, the McLean’s, Gyles bought Thelema. The beginning of a family legacy. The manor house was restored and the first wines under the Thelema label were released in 1988. By the mid 90’s Thelema’s wines sold out within a month after release, making it one of the most sought-after wine estates in South Africa. The Webb family describe Thelema as “one of the most beautiful places on earth”. As Thelema in Stellenbosch continued to flourish, Gyles embarked on a search for an additional property in order to establish a second vineyard. In 2002, the Webb family purchased an idyllic farm with an undulating landscape, in the cool Elgin region, creating ideal grape growing conditions.