Desirade 2020
Desirade 2020
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Nestled in the impressive landscape at the foot of the Simonsberg in Stellenbosch, the Marianne Wine Estate combines French winemaking tradition with South African terroir. The location between Stellenbosch and Paarl offers ideal climatic conditions and forms the basis for characterful, structured wines.
The winery's roots lie in Bordeaux: the owning family acquired Marianne in 2004 with the clear vision of uniting the elegance and precision of the Old World with the fruit and energy of the New World.
As a boutique winery of around 32 hectares, Marianne consistently prioritizes quality over quantity. At the heart are wines with depth, structure and a clear signature, grown in the vineyard and carefully nurtured in the cellar.
The name 'Marianne' symbolizes French identity and values — and it is precisely this combination of origin, character and modern interpretation that shapes the style of the wines.
Tasting notes
In the glass a deep, dark ruby red. On the nose, intense aromas of blackberries and dried cranberries, accompanied by spicy notes like liquorice and a hint of anise. Aging in French oak gives the wine additional depth and fine structure. On the palate it is powerful yet balanced, with a lovely balance of fruit, spice and oak. The Merlot provides roundness and elegance, while the Cabernet Sauvignon brings structure and length. The tannins are present but well integrated, giving the wine a pleasant texture. The finish is long, soft and harmonious with lingering notes of dark fruit and fine spice.
Grape Variety
Chenin Blanc is a widely cultivated, old white wine grape variety that has been grown in France (in Anjou – Touraine) since the 9th century. Compared to other white wine grape varieties, this variety is very productive. This leads to a very high quality of the white wine when reduced on the vine.
In South Africa, Chenin Blanc is the most widely grown white wine grape variety. The reason for this is primarily the very high diversity. For example, there are "wild-growing" vines (so-called Bush Vines) that are usually not irrigated. For this reason, the vines penetrate very deep into the ground with their roots to reach water. These Chenin Blancs therefore have a stronger depth and complexity.
The grape variety can also be aged very fresh and fruity in stainless steel tanks, developing into a very nice summer wine. Through the Aged in oak barrels, one obtains very complex and full-bodied white wines. The aromas of Chenin Blanc wines range from peach, apricot, and tropical fruits to honey and melon.