Meerlust Merlot 2020

Meerlust Merlot, Stellenbosch, South Africa, 2020

Grapes: A blend of 87% Merlot, 8% Petit Verdot and 5% Cabernet Franc

Hand picked from 30 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 French oak barrels (50% new and 50% second fill), the final components were selected and blended and given another 10 months in barrel for harmonisation before bottling.

Producer Tasting Note:

Deep red with purple edges. Typical Merlot characteristics on the nose with ripe plum and dark cherry notes underpinned by some dried herbs and oak spice. The palate is generous, while still delicate on the finish, showing complex cherry tobacco flavours coupled with a fine acidity. This wine shows the elegance and fruit purity of the 2020 vintage and as with all Merlot’s from the estate, will age gracefully and will gain in complexity and suppleness of tannin for many years to come.

Critic's Tasting Note:

"Dark berries, dark plums and sweet spices on the nose with some earth as well. Medium body with creamy tannins. Rich and well-rounded with texture and a vivid finish with some spices coming through as well. Drink or hold." 

James Suckling, October 2023

"Meerlust’s 2020 Merlot benefited from the inclusion of 8% Petit Verdot and 5% Cabernet Franc. Curated in 54% new wood, this is a fresh, leafy, elegant, comparatively forward red with top notes of tobacco leaf and aromatic spices, black cherry and raspberry fruit and a leafy undertone. 2024-30"

93/100 points, Tim Atkin MW, March 2023

"Bold & self-assured, the 2020 has typical blackcurrant & cocoa underpinning, with earth & mineral threads, solid tannins. Small dashes Petit Verdot & Cab Franc, add breadth & appeal. As with the 2018, serious oaking (18 months, 40% new) prepare it for the long haul"

4½ Stars (93 points), Platter’s South African Wine Guide, 2024

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