For the Merlot, Steenberg uses a considerable proportion of newer barriques, a full 47% are new, 40% second use and 13 % in third occupancy. This leads to an intense oak influence, which is reflected in smoky notes and vanilla. In addition, this wine has notes reminiscent of plums, cherries and cloves. As befits a Merlot, the taste profile is characterized by juicy fullness and soft tannins, but nothing is overdone or "hot", thanks to the rather cool climate in Constantia.
