Hesketh Dangerous Type Merlot 2023

The Dangerous Type leads with immediate fruit generosity and accessible tannins. Unlike warmer-climate Australian Merlots from the Riverland or McLaren Vale, the Limestone Coast origin keeps the fruit precise rather than jammy. For buyers in Nairobi comparing Australian red wines, this sits apart from the Trumpeter Malbec on the shelf by offering a softer, more plush mid-palate and a fruit brightness that Malbec seldom delivers. It is the more food-matching option of the two. Vegan certified and sustainably produced, it also speaks to buyers for whom provenance and farming practice are part of the purchase decision.

Tasting Notes

Deep ruby with a purple edge, consistent with a young Limestone Coast red. The nose opens with bright, lifted dark berry fruit — ripe blackcurrant and black cherry leading, with a background note of dried plum and a faint cocoa dusting. There is no heaviness here. The fruit is clean and direct. On the palate, the entry is rounded and plush. The tannins are soft and fine grained rather than gripping, dissolving quickly into the mid-palate where ripe boysenberry and dark cherry carry through. A thread of vanilla and baking spice sits beneath the fruit, adding texture without dominating. The acidity is bright for the body weight, which keeps the wine from feeling heavy or extracted. The finish is persistent for its price point. Dark berry skin, a trace of cacao and a faint earthy note linger for 25 to 30 seconds. The defining character here is the combination of fruit brightness and palate weight. Most Merlots at this level choose one or the other. This one holds both.

Food Pairing

The plush tannins and bright acidity of a cool climate Merlot point to roasted and braised red meat rather than charred or heavily spiced preparations. Slow-roasted lamb shoulder, beef tenderloin and duck breast with a berry reduction are the strongest matches. The fruit brightness cuts through the richness of the meat cleanly without the tannin aggression of a Cabernet Sauvignon. Pasta with a rich tomato-based sauce and mushroom risotto also work well alongside a glass. For a Nairobi dinner where the main course is a slow-cooked roast or a hearty pasta, this is a bottle that holds from the first pour to the last without demanding attention.

What you Need to Know:

Is Merlot dry or does it have some sweetness?

Fully dry. The ripe dark berry aromas can read as sweet on the nose, but there is no residual sugar. The fruit character is from the grape itself, not added sweetness.

How does this compare to Cabernet Sauvignon, which is easier to drink?

Dangerous Type Merlot has noticeably softer tannins and a rounder palate entry than most Cabernet Sauvignons. If Cabernet feels too firm or drying, Merlot at this style is the natural step sideways.

Is Australian Merlot different from French Merlot; which is better?

Different rather than better. French Merlot from Bordeaux or Pomerol tends toward earthier, more restrained styles with firm structure. This Limestone Coast Merlot leads with brighter fruit and a more immediately approachable palate, which makes it easier to enjoy without food or cellaring.

What food works best with this bottle?

Slow-roasted lamb, beef tenderloin and pasta with a tomato-based sauce are the strongest matches. The soft tannins sit cleanly against the richness of the meat without overpowering the dish.

Is this a reliable everyday red or is it for special occasions only?

Everyday. The fruit forward profile and accessible tannins mean it works without food or ceremony. It does not need decanting and holds well over the course of an evening.

What should I do if this bottle is out of stock?

Our customer service team can help you find a suitable alternative or source the product where possible. Reach out before your event.

Is Hesketh Dangerous Type Merlot available for delivery?

Nairobi orders placed before 9 PM qualify for same-day delivery from The Wine Box, typically completed within a 1-hour window. Free delivery applies to orders above KES 3,000 within Nairobi. Orders outside Nairobi are delivered nationwide across Kenya within 24–48 hours.