Meerlust Pinot Noir

Wine information: 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. Today the family tradition of dedication to winemaking continues under the guidance of Hannes Myburgh who studied winemaking at Geisenheim in Germany and Château Lafite in France. Chris Williams was appointed Cellar Master at Meerlust prior to the 2004 harvest. Meerlust is situated 15 kilometres south of Stellenbosch, with False Bay just five kilometres away. The Estate is uniquely positioned for the production of wines with exceptional complexity and character. In the summertime, ocean breezes and evening mists roll in from the coast to cool the vineyards. The grapes ripen slowly, thus achieving full, concentrated varietal flavours. 110 hectares are planted, mainly with red varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Pinot Noir. This wine is made from 3 clones of Pinot Noir, 115, 777 and BK5 with an average age of 18 years, situated on loamy gravel topsoil with clay sub-soil. 40% vendage vert (green harvesting cluster removal) at 60% veraison to ensure concentration and even ripening. Grapes hand picked and selected in the coolness of morning before partial crushing. Fermentation in small stainless steel cuves with regular pigeage for gentle extraction. Partial un-innoculated fermentation before pressing directly in French oak tight grained Hogsheads for malo-lactic fermentation. After racking, the wine was matured in 70% new Alliers Hogsheads and 30% second fill Hogsheads for 11 months before bottling. Meerlust Pinot Noir has an intense yet translucent ruby-purple in colour. The nose has lifted scents of summer fruit, red cherry, strawberry, musky perfume and a distinct minerality. The palate is medium bodied with pure Pinot Noir fruit flavours of plum and red cherry supported by an ultra-fine, densely textured tannin structure which adds to the volume and vivacity of the wine. Try with white and red meats, Parma ham, grilled linefish, mushrooms and cheese.

 
     

Enter your e-mail address and click the button to opt into the Fareham Wine Cellar mailing list: