Meerlust, Rubicon 2017

Meerlust Rubicon 2017 is one of South Africa’s benchmark Bordeaux-style blends, offering the depth, structure and longevity of a world-class classic. Produced by the historic Meerlust estate in Stellenbosch, it combines old-world inspiration with distinctly Cape character. With its strong track record and cellar-worthy profile, Rubicon has long been regarded as one of the flagship reds of South Africa.

Tasting Notes
In the glass, Rubicon 2017 shows a deep, concentrated colour that hints at its structure and serious ageing potential. The nose is layered and refined, with blackcurrant, plum, cedar, graphite and dried herbs, supported by subtle spice and well-integrated oak. On the palate, it is full-bodied and composed, with firm but polished tannins, fresh acidity and a core of dark fruit wrapped in savoury complexity. The blend has the balance and backbone to evolve beautifully over many years, gaining further nuance, texture and tertiary depth with bottle age.

Production
The grapes come from several Stellenbosch vineyards, each chosen for its contribution to the final blend. Cabernet Sauvignon comes from a low-yielding site with granite and gravel soils, Merlot from clay-rich, well-drained soils with iron-rich parcels, Cabernet Franc from a very well-drained stony soil with around 20% clay, and Petit Verdot from Oakleaf soils. The grapes are vinified separately in stainless steel tanks before the final blend is assembled after an initial period of oak maturation. The wine then spends nine months in French oak, around two-thirds of it new, before blending and a further nine months of barrel ageing.

Food & Serving
Rubicon 2017 is an excellent match for grilled or roasted red meats, lamb, game, beef short ribs and hearty dishes with rich sauces. It also pairs well with mature hard cheeses and mushroom-based dishes. Serve at around 16–18°C, and consider decanting for one to two hours if drinking young to allow the wine to open fully.

Producer
Founded in 1756, Meerlust is one of Stellenbosch’s most iconic wine estates and a true reference point for South African fine wine. The estate has earned widespread international acclaim over decades, particularly for its Bordeaux-style reds. Rubicon remains its signature wine and one of the most respected blends in the country, regularly standing alongside top examples from Bordeaux in terms of ambition and quality.

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