Meerlust Cabernet Sauvignon 2020

Drink now or cellar for up to 10 years. No need to decant before serving. The origins of the Meerlust estate date back to 1693 when German immigrant Henning Huising settled here. No doubt the stunning setting on a granite outcrop just 5km from False Bay inspired him to name it “Meerlust” or “pleasure of the sea”, and this location has also proven fortuitous for the Myburgh family who have been making exceptional wines here for 8 generations. Conditions are ideal for premium winemaking thanks to the proximity to the ocean which supplies cooling breezes even during full summer. Combined with ample sunshine and warmth, this helps ensure a long, slow ripening season for the grapes. The fruit for this punchy Cabernet is carefully selected and hand harvested from two mature vineyards which are strictly managed to give low yields. Once in the winery the grapes are vinified according to traditional methods and just the free-run wine is used for this particular cuvee. After fermentation the young wine is aged in 70% new French oak barrels for 17 months. This helps add gentle warm spice and toasted notes to the intense dark plum, cassis and berry notes from the grape. There’s also the classic fennel and licorice notes that are typically associated with Meerlust Cabernet, making it a great wine to serve with herby lamb or earthy game dishes.

Price: £25.48 from 8wines UK