Haut Espoir’s Merlot 2015, from South Africa’s Franschhoek, is crafted from 20-year-old vines on sandstone soils. The 2015 vintage, warm and balanced, yielded concentrated grapes. Fermented in stainless steel and aged 14 months in French oak (30% new), it pours deep ruby with plum, blackberry, and spice aromas, plus vanilla and earth. Medium-bodied, it offers soft tannins, balanced acidity (5.5 g/L), and rich fruit with a smooth finish. Sustainable practices ensure quality. Ideal for lamb or cheeses, it’s at its peak but holds through 2025. A refined Merlot.