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. In sping 2020, winemaker Wim Truter joined Meerlust, taking over from Chris Williams to become only the third winemaker to take the reins at this historic estate. The name Meerlust means “pleasure of the sea”, as the property is situated 5km from False Bay (and 15km south of Stellenbosch), where the cooling influence of the coast allows the grapes ripen slowly.
The Chardonnay is a true expression of the Meerlust estate and illustrates the unique climate and soil of the farm. The wine draws fruit from blocks located on two of our four distinctive terroirs namely –
Kompagniesdrift – The soils from this warm north facing slope are predominantly formed from weathered granite. The wines originating from this granitic hilltop are expressive and bold in structure, mainly due to the coarse gravelly texture and sufficient soil depth to promote long and even ripening. The blocks are situated on the highest part of the estate and benefit from cool nights and a prevailing sea breeze that passes over the blocks in the afternoon.
Quarry – The extremely rocky terrain consisting of greywacke with interbedded shales provides a unique substrate for vines. Shallow rooted vines on this cool and windswept foot slope leads to wines with characteristic citrus fruit with exceptional length, detail, and precision.
Picking of grapes were done by a team of experienced pickers ensuring optimal selection of fruit. After pressing, juice was settled overnight and racked with some fine solids to barrel where fermentation takes place. A mix of 33% new, 30% second fill 300lt and 37% third fill barrels are used, and fermentation is either with selected yeast or through natural spontaneous fermentation. After fermentation, the wine was given a racking to remove heavy lees and returned to barrel for maturation. The wine is matured until it reaches the desired mouth feel and complexity. After removing the wine from barrel, it undergoes a light fining before bottling.
Very bright pale-yellow colour with green, vivacious hue. Complex, appealing nose of apricot, peach, pear, lemon zest and floral notes with hints of toasted almonds. On the palate the wine is well structured and linear but retains generous focused stone fruit flavours with sleek, balanced, and crisp acidity. The wine remains vivacious and fresh on the finish with clean citrus fruit underpinned by minerality. The wine has a long, very pleasant lingering finish.
Grilled fish, white and red meat
Serve at 12-14°C.
Stellenbosch, South Africa
100% Chardonnay
Diam
12.94%
3.0 g/l
Total Acid 6.2 g/l
Yes
Yes
