Meerlust new releases

It might seem that Stellenbosch property Meerlust has entered a period of improved quality since the arrival of Wim Truter from KWV in 2020 to head up the cellar but credit should probably also go to his predecessor Chris Williams who instigated the process of vineyard renewal that is now bearing positive results. In wine, improvements are cumulative and slow to manifest…

Estate Red 2022
Price: R250
50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Cabernet Franc and 10% Merlot. Matured for 16 months in barrel, 10% new. Red and black berries, rose, fynbos and oak spice on the nose. The palate is graceful and stylish – medium bodied with juicy fruit, bright acidity and fine tannins. Entirely engaging. Alc: 13.87%.

CE’s rating: 92/100.

Buy from Getwine

Merlot 2023
Price: R470
Red currant, cherry and a hint of cassis plus pencil shavings and oak spice on the nose. Matured for 18 months in barrel, 40% new. Luscious fruit, bright acidity and velvety tannins. Carefully crafted, this shows a finesse that local examples of the variety often lack. Alc: 14.71%.

CE’s rating: 92/100.

Buy from Getwine

Rubicon 2023
Price: R610

46% Cabernet Sauvignon, 36% Merlot, 11% Cabernet Franc and 7% Petit Verdot. Majority of vineyards harvested before the rain of March. Matured for 18 months in barrel, 50% new. Red currant, cassis, violets, some leafiness, vanilla and oak spice on the nose. Good fruit definition, bright acidity and firm, age-worthy tannins. Not without weight, tightly knit, a classic SA take on the Bordeaux blend. Alc: 14%.

CE’s rating: 95/100.

Buy from Getwine

Check out our South African wine ratings database.