Meerlust Estate has been part of the Myburgh family tradition for eight generations, dating back to 1756. Long recognised for producing world-class wines, the Meerlust Estate is singularly rich in charm and history.

Grapes
88% Merlot and 12% Cabernet Franc

Viticulture
Selected from 24 year old Merlot plantings situated on clay-rich Oakleaf, Vilafontes and Klapmuts soil. 40% vendage vert (green harvesting cluster removal) at 60% veraison to ensure concentration and even-ripening.

Wine Making
Grapes hand-picked & selected before crushing. Fermentation in stainless steel tanks with partial uninnoculated fermentation. Daily remontage and delistage for gentle extraction. A portion of the wine was given extended maceration on the skins for five weeks before pressing. Malo-lactic fermentation proceeded in 300 litre French oak Hogsheads. Maturation in 60% new Nevers French oak, 40% second fill Nevers for 17 months before bottling. Meerlust Merlot 2005 is a blend of 88% Merlot and 12% Cabernet Franc for structure.

Tasting Notes
Deep, youthful purple colour with a ruby rim. A typical Merlot nose with juicy plum and mulberry fruit, lifted spiciness and hints of dark chocolate and inkiness. The palate offers generous, ripe, pure Merlot fruit with refreshing acidity, structured yet silky tannins and pronounced length and minerality.

Food Matching
Red meats, game and strong cheeses.