Plaisir de Merle, an historic estate in the glorious Drakenstein area of Paarl, has re-vamped its Tasting Centre just in time for the summer season and expected influx of visitors to the Cape Winelands. The newly renovated Tasting Centre, which was once an old barn, adjoins the picturesque, 18th century Homestead.
It has a relaxed lounge atmosphere, where visitors can sample wines at their leisure, ensconced in comfy couches and fine surroundings. This new approach to wine-tasting is designed to expand the whole experience and allow visitors to absorb not only the pleasures of the wine, but, at the same time, a glimpse of a past gracious era. The modernized Tasting Centre is versatile enough to accommodate both small and large groups. And the use of folding doors extends the area without compromising the authenticity and elegance of the surroundings.
Situated on the fertile south-eastern slopes of the Simonsberg, Plaisir de Merle has a rich history dating back to when Simon van der Stel was Governor and many pioneering Huguenots were settling in this desirable Drakenstein region of the Cape.
Today the modern Plaisir de Merle is situated on hectares has become one of the largest wine farms in the Cape. Only specific identified prime vineyard sites are chosen for planting the vines for the Plaisir de Merle range of wines β blocks that best reflect the characteristics of the terroir.
Although about hectares planted with noble grape varieties only about 80 hectares of the vineyards are used for Plaisir de Merle wines. He strives for fruity tannins rather than hard tannins, wine with ageing potential, yet ready to drink while relatively young. The emphasis is on capturing as much fruit as possible and on the discreet use of small wood.
