# Meerlust Estate Cabernet Sauvignon (2020)

- **Producer:** Meerlust Estate
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Cabernet Sauvignon
- **Region:** Western Cape, South Africa
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.5%
- **Average price:** €25
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** blackcurrant, blueberry, black cherry, cloves, cedar, vanilla, chocolate, oyster shell, kelp, salted liquorice

## About this wine

Meerlust Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2020 is a single-varietal wine from Stellenbosch, South Africa. Produced by Meerlust Estate, a winery with a history dating back to 1756 and owned by the Myburgh family for eight generations, the estate's name signifies 'pleasure of the sea.' The vineyards are situated in a region influenced by False Bay, which contributes to the ripening process. The 2020 vintage was characterized by a balanced growing season following good winter rainfall and a warm spring, leading to even ripening.

## Interesting facts

- Meerlust means 'pleasure of the sea' in Dutch.
- The estate is a national monument in South Africa.
- The Myburgh family has owned Meerlust for over 260 years.
- The wine is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon from four distinct terroirs.

## Food pairing

The wine's full body and elegant tannins are well-suited to complement the richness and protein of red meats. The wine's structure can stand up to robust flavors, while subtle dark fruit notes can echo or contrast with savory dishes.

## Wine making process

The winemaking process for Meerlust Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2020 involved hand-picking grapes from three distinct parcels, which were vinified separately. Components underwent malolactic fermentation in barrel for six months. Following this, the wine was blended and matured for an additional 12 months in barrel, with 50% of the barrels being new French oak, for a total of 18 months of barrel aging.