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.
As with all our wines, the Pinot Noir 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 one 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.
Grapes were handpicked from two blocks. Grapes were destemmed and crushed to small fermenters. Light handling during fermentation allowed gentle extractions resulting in elegant structure. Maturation took place in new and second fill 300L barrels.
Our growing season began mild and dry which was largely beneficial for earlier ripening varieties like Pinot Noir. It also limited berry size and yields which benefited our red varieties. The area experienced a cool ripening period in general, that aided early cultivars but could be problematic for late ripening varieties. We however saw rapid flavour development and the vast majority of our vineyards were harvested before the rains began in all earnest. This resulted in bright flavourful wines that show good levels of extraction at good pH and acidity levels.
The wine shows a vibrant garnet colour with a youthful appearance. On the nose the wine shows pronounced lifted floral perfume with a brooding and seductive red berry fruit, earthy, wild mushrooms, and hints of spice. On the palate there are very pure Pinot fruit flavours on entry with red cherry and musk flavours coupled with fresh acidity. The wine has layered complexity with great elegance and finesse. Fine lacy, almost powdery tannin on the finish.
Enjoy with white and red meats, duck, Parma ham, grilled line fish, tuna, wild mushrooms and traditional cheeses.
Serve at 16-18°C.
Stellenbosch, South Africa
100% Pinot Noir
Cork
12.60
1.76 g/l
Total Acid 3.5 g/l
Yes
Yes
