Meerlust Estate Red featured image
Meerlust Red 2021
Vintage
Region
Stellenbosch, Western Cape
Country
South Africa
Style
Still
Grape Varieties
Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot
ABV
14%
Dietary
Vegan, Vegetarian
Sustainability
Sustainable Certification
Meerlust Estate
Meerlust Wine Estate is one of South Africa’s most historic and prestigious wine estates, located in Stellenbosch in the Western Cape and owned by the Myburgh family since 1756. Today, under the stewardship of eighth-generation custodian Hannes Myburgh, the estate is internationally renowned for its pioneering Bordeaux-style blend, Rubicon, alongside a portfolio of elegant, estate-grown wines including Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. Crafted from vineyards influenced by the cooling maritime breezes of nearby False Bay, Meerlust wines are celebrated for their balance, complexity and exceptional ageing potential.
As the exclusive Meerlust wine importer in the UK and premium wine distributor, MMD provides direct access to these iconic wines, positioning Meerlust as a benchmark for South African fine wine.
Read MoreViticulture
Meerlust Red 2021 is a Bordeaux-style Stellenbosch red blend sourced from the estate?s four distinctive terroirs. Compagniesdrift, a warm north-facing granite slope, contributes bold structure. The River Terraces, with sandy soils and rounded river stones, bring fruit-forward detail and diurnal freshness. The Quarry, with rocky greywacke and interbedded shales, adds red-fruit precision and length. The Lowlands, an ancient estuary with clay-rich soils, contributes smooth texture and black-fruit character.
Vinification
Meerlust Red 2021 is a blend of 36% Cabernet Franc, 25% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Sauvignon and 14% Petit Verdot. Each parcel of each variety was fermented separately before undergoing malolactic fermentation in 300-litre barrels and large foudres. After eight months in oak, the components were blended and returned to barrel for a further eight months of harmonisation before bottling, building integration, structure and balance.
Vintage Info
The 2021 vintage benefited from good winter rainfall and long, uninterrupted cold spells, which replenished reserves and satisfied vine cold requirements. A dry, hot spring was followed by a moderate growing season, promoting even budding and slower than normal ripening. These conditions were particularly favourable for late-ripening varieties. The measured ripening period supported balanced fruit development, freshness and structure across the estate?s Bordeaux varieties.
Tasting Note
Youthful ruby red in colour, with a garnet hue. The nose shows supple red and black fruit, warm spice and supporting oak notes. The palate is still young and intense, full-bodied and structured, with fresh red fruit at the core and soft, rounded tannins. The texture is polished and approachable, with enough depth for short to medium-term ageing. The finish is balanced, smooth and fruit-led.
Food Pairing
Pair with grilled lamb, roast beef, pork loin, venison sausages, mushroom pie, charcuterie, aged cheeses, tomato-based pasta or barbecued vegetables.
Bottle Shots - Meerlust Red 2021
