Meerlust Estate Red 2023

The 2023 Estate Red is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (57%), Cabernet Franc (38%), and Merlot (5%) every parcel of each variety was fermented separately before undergoing malolactic fermentation in 300 L barrels and large Foudré. After 8 months in oak, the components were blended and given another 8 months in barrel for harmonization before bottling.

Good rainfall during the winter and long uninterrupted cold spells meant reserves where 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 our late ripening varieties.

16 months in barrel

Cabernet Sauvignon (57%), Cabernet Franc (38%), and Merlot (5%)

Gourmet burgers, light red meats, and tomato-based pasta dishes.

The first Red blend of 1985 was in fact the first declassification of our flagship Rubicon – since then, the blend has been reserved for vintages that we deem not meeting our quality expectation for Rubicon. It has however over time developed its own following and is also now the home for the young vineyards being nurtured to their full potential before being included in Rubicon. It is still a true expression of the Meerlust estate and draws fruit from our four distinctive terroirs. Each terroir provides a unique element to the final blend. Kompagniesdrift - 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. River Terraces - Sandy soils laced with rounded river stones allow for excellent root proliferation. This area of the Estate experiences the greatest shift between day and night temperatures, promoting flavour development of these delicate and fruit forward wines. Quarry - The extremely rocky terrain consisting of greywacke with interbedded shales provides a unique substrate for vines. Shallow rooted vines on this cool and windswept foot slope leads to wines with characteristic red fruit with exceptional length, detail, and precision. Lowlands - The remains of an ancient estuary are marked by clay-rich soils from deeply weathered greywacke and shales. The wines from this generally cool south facing, clay-rich terroir is typically smooth and silky in texture with prominent black fruit.