Meerlust Estate Merlot is a refined expression of Merlot from the coastal Stellenbosch region, selected from 27-year-old estate-grown vines planted on well-drained, clay-rich Oak Leaf, Vilafontes, and Klapmuts soils. The combination of slow ripening from the cooling sea influence and careful vineyard management—including 30% vendange verte at 60% veraison and leaf thinning three weeks before harvest—produces concentrated, even-ripe berries with exceptional flavour. The wine is made from 86% Merlot, 11% Cabernet Franc, and 3% Petit Verdot. Individual parcels are fermented separately, followed by malolactic fermentation in 300L barrels. After 8 months in barrel, the parcels are blended and aged for an additional 10 months in barrel to achieve balance and harmony, resulting in a brick-red wine with a crimson edge, plush palate, complex cherry and tobacco flavours, subtle oak spice, and fine acidity.

Meet the producer

Meerlust Estate has been owned by the Myburgh family since 1756. Today, under the guidance of 8th-generation Hannes Myburgh and Cellar Master Chris Williams, the estate combines centuries of tradition with modern winemaking expertise to craft elegant, age-worthy wines that express the Stellenbosch terroir.

Production

Grapes are hand-selected from mature estate vineyards, with careful canopy management to ensure even ripening. Fermentation occurs in small fermenters for each parcel, followed by malolactic fermentation in 300L barrels. The final blend undergoes extended barrel maturation to integrate flavours, achieve structure, and develop complexity before bottling.

Tasting notes

Brick red with crimson edges. The nose shows typical Merlot character with ripe plum and dark cherry, complemented by dried herbs and subtle oak spice. The palate is plush yet delicate, with layered cherry and tobacco notes, fine acidity, and a long, refined finish. This wine displays the intensity and concentration of its vintage and will age gracefully, gaining complexity and suppleness over time.

Food match

Red meats, game, and strong cheeses.

Awards

Platter Guide 2024 – 93 points
Tim Atkin South African Report 2023 – 93 points

Grape

Merlot 86%, Cabernet Franc 11%, Petit Verdot 3%

We strive to provide fast and reliable delivery, with Free Express Delivery on orders over £150 (UK Mainland only).

Express Delivery

Orders placed by 2pm (Monday to Friday) are dispatched the same day.
Orders placed after 2pm Thursday arrive on Monday.
Orders placed after 2pm Friday arrive on Tuesday.
A signature is required, with GPS-confirmed tracking.
Bank Holidays and seasonal holidays are not considered working days by couriers.

Standard Delivery

Economy (2-3 working days) – Orders placed before 2pm (Monday to Friday) are dispatched the same day.

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