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 has worked on the estate since 1995 and 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), where the cooling influence of the coast allows the grapes ripen slowly.
The Cabernet Sauvignon is grown on low yielding, predominantly biotite, partially decomposed granite gravel topsoil rich in quartz and feldspar to a depth of approximately 600mm with a loamy clay subsoil.The Merlot vineyards are planted on more clay rich, well drained soils to ensure moisture retention throughout the year. There are considerable deposits of iron-rich Laterite in the Merlot vineyards which accentuates the fruit definition and mineral profile of the wine.The Cabernet Franc Vineyard is situated on very well drained, stony Vilafontes soil with approximately 20% clay which is ideal for this variety.
Each parcel was fermented separately to monitor vineyard expression. The Cabernets were given lengthy macerations to ensure complete extraction of the perfectly ripe fruit, but the Merlot was given even longer post fermentation maceration to encourage complete polymerization of complex tannins and add a broad, juicy and silky texture to the blend. Malolactic fermentation takes place in barrel for eight months before assessment and assemblage. The wine is aged for 21 months in 70% new French Nevers oak, 30% second fill Nevers and Alliers barrels.
All the vineyards were green harvested during veraison to reduce yield, increase concentration and fruit definition. The 2010 vintage was well suited to wines based on Cabernet Sauvignon. Good winter rains ensured sufficient soil moisture in our clay-rich soils, particularly important for Merlot. A good even start to spring to a warm, dry summer yielded perfectly ripe fruit. The crop was healthy due to the ever- present prevailing South Easterly sea breezes. The fruit from each vineyard was harvested in small lots and fermented separately to monitor vineyard expression
Deep and youthful in colour, with an intense and almost purple hue. Classic Rubicon nose full of violets, ripe plum, cedar and an intense liquorice spiciness. Still young and intense, promising further maturation potential. The palate is full bodied, structured and packed with fresh dark fruit and rounded, linear tannins.
Delicious with venison, game, pot roasts and cheese.
Serve at 18-20°C. This wine will age 15-20 years.
The Wine Advocate: 92 Points, Neil Martin
Platter: 5/5
IWSC: Silver Medal
Decanter World Wine Awards 2013: Commended
Stellenbosch, South Africa
62% Cabernet Sauvignon
24% Merlot
12% Cabernet Franc
2% Petit Verdot
Natural Cork
14.5%
2.9 g/l
6.2 g/l
