Martin Meinert FCM The Italian Job Devon Valley White Merlot 2009 87 Points

Martin Meinert FCM The Italian Job Devon Valley White Merlot 2009 87 Points


First South African winery to produce a barrel fermented White Merlot, limited production of only 2 barrel or around 500 bottles, the maiden vintage was in 2008 which was a fine debut, but 2009 is a rather big step above, with more complexity, freshness and properly white in color with a slight coppery reflection.


Inspired following a trip to the Italian side of Switzerland, where this unusual but rewarding style can be found, get it if you can, and surprise your friend, one of the most interesting wine to date I have tasted from the Cape.


Clear, day bright pale straw with yellow / coppery reflections, crystalline, low plus concentration, medium viscosity, no evidence of gas or sediment.


Clean, medium plus acidity, nutty, toasty, hazelnut, burnt citrus and almonds/marzipan, "Burgundian" mealy note.


Dry, medium plus acidity, low plus alcohol, tight mid palate, nutty profile with new flavours of pistacchio, leesy richness, medium lenght and medium complexity, now until 2017


If served under South African climatic condition served at 12 degrees celsius with a lightly smoked KZN Midlands trout risotto, Maldon sea salt, fried capers and parmesan, Courgette dice.

FCM stands for Family Collection Merlot