2020 Muratie Ronnie Melck Shiraz is a polished and soulful wine that honors Ronnie Melck’s warm personality and his lifelong dream of returning Muratie to the Melck family. Crafted in traditional open fermenters, this Shiraz is succulent and expressive without being jammy. The nose opens with an inviting bouquet of violets and dark chocolate, followed by rich fruit aromas of black plum and mulberry. On the palate, the wine is soft and voluptuous, showcasing silky tannins and layers of dark wood spice. The finish is remarkably savoury, leaving lasting impressions of black pepper and smoked meats. Matured for 16 months in 100% French oak barrels, it is approachable now but possesses the structure to age beautifully for five years or more.
2020 / 0.75 l / 14,35% / Stellenbosch – South Africa
About the Winery
Established in 1685, Muratie Wine Estate is one of South Africa’s oldest family-owned wineries and a place where time seems to stand still. The farm maintains an authentic, almost mystical atmosphere—with cobwebs in the tasting room and original cellar equipment telling stories of centuries past. Since 1987, the Melck family has owned and lovingly managed the estate, choosing to preserve the historical integrity of the buildings and vineyards. Every wine in their portfolio is named after a real character from Muratie’s history, such as the famous Ansela van de Caab or George Paul Canitz.
Under the direction of winemaker Hattingh de Villiers, Muratie focuses on traditional, minimal-intervention methods to let the raw character of the fruit shine. The estate is particularly renowned for its elegant red blends and its historical role as the first producer of Pinot Noir in South Africa. Their wines are more than just a drink; they are liquid history, capturing the romance and ruggedness of a bygone era.
Terroir
The terroir of Muratie is closely tied to the foothills of the Simonsberg Mountain, where the vineyards benefit from south-western exposure and altitudes ranging from 250 to 350 meters. This location provides ample sunlight for optimal ripening, while evening cooling from the mountains helps preserve essential freshness and elegance in the grapes. The soil structure consists of very old, decomposed Oakleaf and Clovelly granite, which has an excellent water-holding capacity—crucial for the depth and concentration of the resulting wines.
A unique feature of Muratie is its collection of old vines, which impart a natural balance and refinement to the wine. The combination of these granite soils and a temperate climate influenced by the nearby ocean results in wines with profound structure, supple yet firm tannins, and the characteristic mineral undertone that makes the Simonsberg-Stellenbosch region so highly regarded.
Recommended wine pairings
Muratie Ronnie Melck Syrah Family Reserve 2020
Open a bottle… when you're the right age! Only enter if you are 18 years old.
