If you want a real taste of South African terroir, you’ll get it with this Franschhoek Merlot. Made with minimal intervention in the cellar, it’s a taste of the place through and through. Think aromas of red berries, plums, tobacco and oregano – and decadent flavours of dark fruit, mocha and graphite.

If you’ve ever tasted the cult favourite South African Syrah wine The Chocolate Block, you’ve got winemaker Marc Kent to thank. Kent is also the magic touch behind Vinologist, this funky-label brand that specialises in vegan-friendly single-variety wines. Both fall under the umbrella of Boekenhoutskloof, a versatile winery with roots dating back to 1776.

Franschhoek, down the road from Stellenbosch, produces some cracking wines. Steep mountains surround the valley on three sides and huge fluctuations between day- and night-time temperatures ripen fruit to perfection. When it comes to Merlot, grapes can hang longer on the vine before harvest, resulting in increased flavour concentration and soft tannins.

This wine will go perfect with Beef Fillet in a Green Peppercorn Sauce