Meerlust Estate Red
Stellenbosch, South Africa
Vintage:2021 (Current)
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- WAN
- JR
Reviews
Wine Anorak 94 Points
This was initially made as a one-off declassification, but now it is a permanent part of the range: they have 20 hectares of younger vineyards that need a home. 2021 was a lovely vintage, and quite cool, giving intense wines but also fresh wines and this year the wine was Cabernet Franc led. 18 months in oak, 10% new. Chunky and focused with sweet black cherry and berry fruits, with nice definition. Good concentration with a bit of structure and nice freshness. Lovely intensity to this wine with great balance and potential for ageing.
JancisRobinson.com 15.5/20 Points
Bright red fruit, tart with juiciness; darker bramble fruit, smudged with dustiness. The acidity sticks out a little (like the Cabernet) and the tannins are more rustic. It's pleasant and robust, but just a wee bit scrappy.
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
Every parcel of each variety was fermented separately before undergoing malolactic fermentation in 300-liter barrels and large foudre. After 8 months in oak, the components were blended and given another 8 months in barrel for harmonization before bottling. With its rich flavor profile and carefully selected blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot grapes, the Meerlust Red is a true expression of the estate's commitment to quality and excellence in winemaking.
Tasting Notes
Youthful ruby red color, with a garnet red hue. Supple red and black fruit, with warm spice on the nose with some supporting oak notes. Still young and intense, the palate is full bodied, structured but packed with fresh red fruit and soft rounded tannins.
Harvest Notes
The vineyards were green-harvested during veraison to reduce yield and increase concentration, tannin ripeness and fruit definition.
The 2021 growing season enjoyed good rainfall during the winter and long uninterrupted cold spells which meant reserves were adequately replenished and cold requirement easily met. A very dry and hot spring followed by a moderate growing season resulted in even budding and slower than normal, even ripening – especially beneficial for late ripening varieties.
Food Pairing
Complements venison, game, pot roast, and noble cheese. Best served between 64°F and 68°F.
Technical Information
Varietals: 36% Cabernet Franc, 25% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Sauvignon, 14% Petit Verdot
Wine Alcohol: 14.11%
pH: 3.48