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Meerlust Rubicon 2016 (750ml)

Meerlust Rubicon 2016 (750ml)

£42.95
£42.95
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The very hot and dry 2016 vintage saw Meerlust make a Rubicon with a difference; elegance over power was the approach. Only 49% Cabernet Sauvignon in this blend augmented by higher percentages of Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Malbec. Luckily the late ripening varieties benefitted from slightly lower temperatures and this, coupled with good winemaking skills, resulted in an excellent Rubicon. The general opinion was, because of the softer and more approachable character due to the higher percentages of the earlier ripening grapes, to consume the earlier drinkable '16 while you wait for huge and slightly austere '15 and '17 wines to mature. 

 
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About the wine

Producer:

Meerlust Estate

Winemaker:

Chris Williams

Grapes:

Cabernet Sauvignon 49%, Merlot 28%, Cabernet Franc 20% and Petit Verdot 3%

Closure:

Cork

Country:

South Africa

Units:

750ml

Type:

Bold red wine

Region:

Stellenbosch

Style:

Bordeaux style blend.

Vintage:

2016

Colour:

Very deep, youthful colour, and intense almost purple hue.

Alcohol:

14%

Body:

Full bodied

Oak:

300 L barrels, 46% new French Nevers and 49% second fill casks

Blend:

Cab Sauv 49%, Merlot 28%, Cab Franc 20%, Petit Verdot 3%

Tasting Notes:

The 2016 Rubicon is a extraordinary vintage of this iconic Cape wine. at the outset a deep youthful colour, and an intense purple hue. Quintessential Rubicon nose with violets, ripe plum, cedar wood, fennel and intense spiciness. A typical liquorice note is also evident on the nose.. On the palate the full bodied mouthfeel of the earlier ripening grapes Merlot and Cabernet Franc come to the fore but the healthy acidity brings balance and a good finish is achieved.

Bouquet:

Violets, ripe plum, cedar wood, fennel and intense spiciness. A typical liquorice note also evident on the nose.

Maturation:

18 months in 100% French oak medium-toast barrels

Ageing Potential:

15 – 30 years, provided wine is stored in ideal cellar conditions