Meerlust Rubicon 2023
Bordeaux Blend
Description
Meerlust Estate, located on the coastal plains of Stellenbosch, is one of South Africa’s most respected historic wineries, with a winemaking legacy dating back to 1693. The estate’s proximity to False Bay brings cooling maritime influences, while its diverse soils - including decomposed granite and clay - provide structure and complexity to the wines.
Rubicon is the estate’s flagship blend and has long been regarded as a benchmark for Bordeaux-style wines in South Africa. The winemaking philosophy is rooted in classical structure and balance, with careful vineyard selection, hand-harvesting, and maturation in French oak to build depth without overwhelming the fruit. The focus is on longevity, elegance, and a clear sense of place rather than overt power.
Colour:
Deep ruby with a dense core and a youthful garnet rim.
Nose:
Blackcurrant and dark plum lead, layered with cedar, tobacco leaf, and graphite. Subtle notes of spice, dried herbs, and dark chocolate add complexity.
Palate:
Full-bodied with a structured, finely grained tannin profile. The fruit is concentrated - cassis and black cherry - balanced by fresh acidity and well-integrated oak. There is a savoury, slightly earthy undertone that adds depth and keeps the wine composed rather than opulent.
Finish:
Long and persistent, with lingering dark fruit, cedar, and a firm, dry structure that suggests excellent ageing potential.
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Meerlust Rubicon 2023
- Food Pairing : Meerlust Rubicon 2023 pairs best with rich, structured dishes that match its depth and tannin profile. It’s a natural partner for roasted or grilled red meats such as beef steak or lamb, where the tannins soften against the protein. Slow-cooked dishes like oxtail or beef short rib work equally well, allowing the wine’s acidity to cut through richness while complementing its savoury character. For a more refined pairing, try it with venison or mature hard cheeses, where the wine’s complexity and structure can fully come into play.
- Drink before: Cellaring potential: 15–25 years from vintage.
- Vintage: 2023
- Region: Stellenbosch
- Panel Rating: 4.0
- Medals Won: Greg Sherwood MW: 96 points - "A class act that is sure to be one of the standout Cape Bordeaux blends of the vintage". Platter's Wine Guide: 5 Stars. Tim Atkin Report 2023: 96 points.
- Grapes used to make this wine were grown in: Decomposed granite and clay.
- Sugar Content: 2.5g/L
- Alcohol Content: 14%
Stock and Delivery:
In Stock: Standard delivery within 5 days
Stock at supplier: Delivery within 10 - 15 days
R99 Nationwide
Free Delivery: On orders over R2 000
Our Guarantee:
We guarantee a full credit on the cost of the wine, no questions asked, and we will also collect the remainder of any pack and refund you in full if you are unhappy with the quality, the service or any aspect of Wine-of-the-Month Club.
Replacements:
In the unlikely event that there is a broken bottle in your case, please tell us immediately and we will credit your account. We reserve the right to substitute product if stock runs out, to the same or higher value of the stock.
Please note:
These figures are subject to change.