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.
The Cabernets were given quite 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 as a whole. Malolactic fermentation was completed in barrel for 7 months before assessment and assemblage.
The 2013 Rubicon classic expression of this iconic Cape wine. Very deep, youthful colour, and intense almost purple hue.
Very classic Rubicon nose with violets, ripe plum, cedar wood and intense spiciness. A typical liquorice note and stony minerality also evident on the nose. Still youthful and intense, promising further maturation potential. The palate is full bodied, structured by beautifully sleek, ripe tannins which restrain the vibrant dark fruit typical of this vintage, giving the wine an opulent texture which is kept focused by the linear acidity. The wine lingers on the palate with creamy fruit mouthfiilling tannins.
Venison, game, pot roast and noble cheese.
Ideally served at 18°C - 20°C
JamesSuckling.com: 92 POINTS
August 3, 2017, James Suckling
“Black plums aromas with minty and green olive character. Balanced palate with a medium body, chewy tannins, and ripe plums. Savory finish. Well made. A classic blend that is always excellent. Blend of 67% cabernet sauvignon, 14% merlot, 12% cabernet franc and 7% petit verdot. Enjoy now.”
Stellenbosch, South Africa
67% Cabernet Sauvignon
14% Merlot
12% Cabernet Franc
7% Petit Verdot
Natural Cork
13.9%
2.1 g/l
6.12 g/l
Yes
No
