Meerlust Merlot 2018

Meerlust Merlot, Stellenbosch, South Africa, 2018

Grapes: 86% Merlot, 11% Cabernet Franc, 3% Petit Verdot.

Hand picked from 27 year old vines. It is made up of a few individual parcels that are all fermented separately before undergoing malolactic fermentation in 300 L barrels. After 8 months in barrel, the final components were selected and blended and given another 10 months in barrel for harmonisation before bottling.

Producer Tasting Note:

Brick red colour with crimson edge. Typical Merlot characteristics on nose with ripe plum and dark cherry notes underpinned by some dried herbs and oak spice. The palate is plush while still delicate on the finish, showing complex cherry tobacco flavours coupled with a fine acidity. This wine shows the intensity and concentration of the 2018 vintage and, as with all Merlot from the estate, will age gracefully, gaining in complexity and suppleness of tannin for many years to come.

Critics' Tasting Notes:

"Dark-fruited & stately, 2018 displays its quality credentials. Drop of cab franc & petit verdot rein in riper elements, helps create complexity, sophistication. Still embryonic & firmly held, should evolve with reward. 56% new oak, 17 months."

4½ Stars (93 points), Platter’s South African Wine Guide, 2023

"The Merlot blocks at Meerlust are mostly located closer to False Bay to benefit from the cool breezes blowing off the ocean, which is beneficial in a drought year like 2018. Fine, perfumed and elegant, with graphite, cherry and bramble fruit, stylish 40% new oak and a bright, balanced finish." Drink 2023-2030

92/100 points Tim Atkin MW, March 2022

Food Match: Great with red meats, game and strong cheeses.