Meerlust Estate Red

Stellenbosch, South Africa

Vintage:2018 (Past)

2019 (Current)

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Meerlust Estate Red 2018
  • GS 91+

Reviews

Greg Sherwood

91+ Points

March 4, 2021, Greg Sherwood MW

“Never a wine to shout about its pedigree, instead it prefers to whisper confidently about it’s regal heritage. This Meerlust Red 2018 is sleek, fresh and light on its feet with delicately perfumed aromatics of dried violets, smokey charcoal embers, raisined red currants and freshly cut cedar spice. The palate is light to medium bodied, cool and crisp, showing a pure, precise black berry elegance, sleek fresh acids and a cool textural linearity. The wine finishes with notes of melted black liquorice, black plum, sappy black currant and charred BBQ’ed savoury notes. Impressive accessibility and a classy harmonious balance make this a really delicious glassful now with added pleasure to be expected over 3-8+ years of ageing.”

Overview

Meerlust Estate has been part of the Myburgh family tradition for eight generations, dating back to 1693. Long recognized for producing world-class wines, the Meerlust Estate is singularly rich in charm and history. Meerlust produces wines that are true to the intrinsic character of their vineyards located in the Stellenbosch region. The diverse soils, the unique coastal climate and over 300 years of dedication are all essential components of Meerlust’s complex, rich and truly distinctive wines.

Winemaking

The grapes were hand-picked and fermented separately before undergoing malolactic fermentation in new and seasoned oak, before selection, blending and bottling. The 2018 Meerlust Red was barrel aged in seasoned Nevers French oak casks for 16 months.

Tasting Notes

The high proportion of Cabernet Franc indicates the great quality that this variety showed in 2018, the Merlot adding suppleness and juicy fruit. The wine has an intense, dark purple colour with a violet rim; bright and vivacious in the glass, youthful. The nose is expressive with powerful cassis, plum, exotic spice and hints of floral aromas. On the palate the wine is medium-bodied with intense flavours of crushed black fruit, cassis, vanilla and dark chocolate. The tannins are soft and silky, the acidity fresh, the flavour profile focused and linear. The wine has a persistent and long-lasting aftertaste.

Harvest Notes

The vineyards were green-harvested during veraison to reduce yield and increase concentration, tannin ripeness and fruit definition.

Food Pairing

Complements venison, game, pot roast, and noble cheese. Best served between 64°F and 68°F. 

Technical Information

Varietals: 56% Merlot, 44% Cabernet Franc

Wine Alcohol: 14%