{"product_id":"meerlust-rubicon-2023","title":"Meerlust Rubicon 2023","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"489\" data-end=\"844\"\u003eMeerlust 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"489\" data-end=\"844\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"846\" data-end=\"1257\"\u003eRubicon 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"846\" data-end=\"1257\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1350\" data-end=\"1420\"\u003eColour:\u003cbr data-start=\"1361\" data-end=\"1364\"\u003eDeep ruby with a dense core and a youthful garnet rim.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1350\" data-end=\"1420\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1422\" data-end=\"1587\"\u003eNose:\u003cbr data-start=\"1431\" data-end=\"1434\"\u003eBlackcurrant and dark plum lead, layered with cedar, tobacco leaf, and graphite. Subtle notes of spice, dried herbs, and dark chocolate add complexity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1422\" data-end=\"1587\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1589\" data-end=\"1882\"\u003ePalate:\u003cbr data-start=\"1600\" data-end=\"1603\"\u003eFull-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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1589\" data-end=\"1882\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1884\" data-end=\"2022\"\u003eFinish:\u003cbr data-start=\"1895\" data-end=\"1898\"\u003eLong and persistent, with lingering dark fruit, cedar, and a firm, dry structure that suggests excellent ageing potential.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Meerlust","offers":[{"title":"750ml Bottle","offer_id":45380893606067,"sku":"RW2328BB10","price":650.0,"currency_code":"ZAR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0713\/5195\/9731\/files\/MeerlustRubicon2023.jpg?v=1775124971","url":"https:\/\/www.wineofthemonth.co.za\/products\/meerlust-rubicon-2023","provider":"Wine of the Month","version":"1.0","type":"link"}