Merwida Unexpected (Barbera)

One would not think that an Italian varietal, Barbera, would be cultivated in the Breedekloof Valley, but one of our Breedekloof Makers, Lieza van der Merwe, the winemaker of Merwida Wine Estate makes an excellent example of this Italian cultivar. 

Barbera initially came from Italy, more specifically Piedmont, but grows exceptionally well here in the Breedekloof Valley where the climate is quite similar to Piedmont.

Warm and hot summers are followed by cold winters with snow on the mountains, sometimes until late in spring. The temperatures during spring in the Breedekloof Valley are low resulting in a long and slower ripening season than in other wine areas in the Western Cape. In the Breedekloof Valley, there is significant temperature variation with warm days which results in good sugar development while a steep drop in temperature at night preserves the balance of natural acids in the grapes. This unique combination results in a wine product that is unparalleled in its composition and flavour profile.

Part of The Unexpected Breedekloof Maker’s range, the Merwida Barbera 2020 is made from vineyards that are 18 years old, is grown on Glenrosa/Sandy Loam soil and is usually harvested in the middle of March. The grapes for the 2020 vintage were hand harvested and once received in the cellar cold soaked for 10 days prior to fermentation which took place in stainless steel tanks for 12 days. Post-fermentation skin contact was completed for a further 14 days to extract more colour & flavour into the wine before being transferred to 38% new French Oak & 62% second and third fill French oak barrels, to mature for a further 12 months before being bottled.

The Merwida Barbera is a medium-bodied wine that boasts intense flavours of sour cherries, white pepper and red berries. On the palate, the aromas follow through and the wine has a light and delicate tannin structure, complimented by a high, but integrated acidity and a long finish with flavours of cherries, ripe raspberries and hints of white pepper that lingers on the palate.

A wine that can be enjoyed now with Italian cuisines such as a flavourful Spaghetti Bolognaise, Parma ham & Rocket Pizza, or an authentic spicy Indian curry served with Basmati rice and a homemade roti. But if you are patient, the Merwida Barbera 2020 is a wine that will develop & mature over the next 5 to 8 years and could also be saved for a special occasion.