Meerlust Merlot 2016

Producer Information

Meerlust Estate has been the pride of the Myburgh family since 1756. Today, the dedication to quality winemaking continues under the guidance of 8th generation, Hannes Myburgh. Cellar Master, Chris Williams, who has worked on the estate since 1995 has been in charge of winemaking since 2004. The name Meerlust means “pleasure of the sea”, as the property is situated 5km from False Bay (and 15km south of Stellenbosch), with the cooling influence of the coast, allowing the grapes ripen slowly.

Vineyards

The grapes are selected from 16 and 30 year old estate-grown Merlot plantings situated on clay-rich oak leaf, Vilafontes and Klapmuts soil.

Winemaking

Grapes hand-picked & selected before crushing. Fermentation in stainless steel tanks with partial un-inoculated fermentation. Daily remontage for gentle extraction. A portion of the wine was given extended maceration on the skins for three weeks before pressing. Malolactic fermentation took place in 300 litre French oak Hogsheads. Maturation in 50% new Nevers French oak, 50% second fill Nevers for 17 months before bottling. The Meerlust Merlot 2016 is a blend of 85% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc for structure and acidity and 5% Petit Verdot which gives the wine a lifted floral aroma and polished, sleek tannins.

Vintage Information

The grapes were hand picked and selected in the coolness of the morning.

Tasting Note

Tasted late in 2018, the 2016 Meerlust Merlot was already showing great approachability and charm. The dark fruit and opulence of the wine is immediately apparent. We have been refining the viticulture to produce more balanced, flavourful fruit. Intense dark brambly fruit on the nose, mulberry, liquorice and damson plum with hints of dark chocolate and spice, tempered by a stony minerality. The medium-full bodied palate offers generous, ripe, pure Merlot fruit with refreshing acidity, structured yet silky tannins and pronounced length and minerality. There is a core of juiciness, opulence and richness typical of the variety, while the Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot lend greater complexity to the wine.

Food Pairing

Red meats, game and strong cheeses.

Serving Suggestion

Serve at 18-19°C. Cellaring potential: 12 years, provided wine is stored in ideal conditions.

Press

John Platter: 4.5/5

Stellenbosch, South Africa
Natural Cork
Yes
Yes

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