The Vinologist's journey to discover single-origin Merlot begins with Franschhoek. Merlot buds and ripens early, which exposes the fruit to the dry heat of February and March. Franschhoek's climate is characterized by significant fluctuations of day and night.

An abundance of black fruit, dark cherries and ripe plums with whiffs of rhubarb, tobacco, mint and oregano make for a very complex nose. The entry is smooth with a compote of black currant, blueberry and prunes following through onto a focused mid-palate.