Meerlust Pinot Noir 2023
Meerlust Pinot Noir 2023 is a dry, light-bodied red from Pinot Noir (Stellenbosch, South Africa), in the light, fresh reds style. Tannins are soft and acidity fresh; oak influence is some. Good with duck, charcuterie, lamb, salmon. Drink now or within 6 years (to about 2029). No need to decant. Critic score 93/100 (merchant-reported).
| Wine | Sweet | Body | From | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bourgogne Hautes-Côtes de Beaune 'Bois Prévoit’, Jane Eyre 2024 Jane Eyre · Burgundy | £26.50 | |||
| Tiefenbrunner Turmhof Blauburgunder, Alto Adige 2023 Tiefenbrunner · Alto Adige | £26.50 | |||
| Monthélie Rouge, Domaine Éric Boigelot 2017 Domaine Éric Boigelot · Burgundy | £26.60 | |||
| La Crema Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir 2021 La Crema · California | £26.75 |
Drink now or cellar for up to 6 years. No need to decant before serving. The very first owner of the Meerlust estate, a German immigrant Henning Huising who settled there in 1693, named the property “pleasure of the sea” after its stunning location on a granite outcrop just 5km from False Bay. Today it is run by Hannes Myburgh, the eighth generation of the family to work the estate since they purchased it in 1756. Blessed with cooling ocean breezes and fogs which help moderate the hot summers, the property is located just 15km from Stellenbosch with 110 hectares planted with Bordeaux varietals and some Pinot Noir. Although the region isn’t well-known for Pinot, this example is made from three clones planted at the top of a hill where conditions are ideal for making elegant, Old World-style Pinot Noir. In the glass there’s an attractive vibrant ruby hue and gentle hints of floral perfume, dark berries, and wild mushrooms. The first sip reveals plenty of ripe red cherry, fine tannins, and a pure, clean finish with a lingering bright streak of acidity. It’s a great Pinot to enjoy with classic pairings like roast duck, charcuterie, herby braised lamb, or wild mushroom risottos.