Meerlust Chardonnay 2023

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. 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.

Vineyards

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 –
Compagniesdrift – 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.

Winemaking

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 30% new, 33% second fill 300lt and 32% third fill barrels are used, and this vintage sees the first introduction of 5% fermented in concrete tank. Fermentation is either with selected yeast or through natural spontaneous fermentation. 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.

Tasting Note

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.

 

Food Pairing

Grilled fish, white and red meat

Serving Suggestion

Serve at 12-14°C.

Stellenbosch, South Africa
100% Chardonnay
Diam
13.46%
1.96 g/l
Total Acid 6.24 g/l
Yes
Yes

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