Meerlust Estate Rubicon 2016 Stellenbosch

Cabernet Sauvignon 49%; Merlot 28%; Cabernet Franc 20%; Petit Verdot 3%.

The cabernet sauvignon vines grow in decomposed granite soils and are low yielding. The merlot vines are in soils with a higher clay content and significant deposits of iron-rich Laterite which enhances the mineral profile of the fruit. The cabernet franc vines are in very well drained stony soils.

Growing conditions in 2016 were challenging, being unusually cool and quite dry. Carefully management of the vines and frequent removal of some of the green fruit was necessary to ensure a consistent ripe crop.

The varieties were fermented separately. Very gentle extraction was applied to the cabernet sauvignon to avoid overbearing tannins. The merlot grapes had coped best with the conditions so they had an extended maceration and produced rich, opulent wine. The wine was aged for 16 months in French oak barrels: 55% new, 25% second fill, 20% neutral.

The Meerlust Estate has been owned by the Myburgh family since 1756. Hannes Myburgh, who runs the operation today is the eighth generation of the family to manage and nurture the estate.

Meerlust means "pleasure of the sea," named when it was established in 1693. It is located 15 kilometers south of Stellenbosch, on a granite plateau overlooking False Bay. The sea breeze and evening mists have a cooling effect on the vineyards.