Meerlust Estate Red

Unveiling the Finesse of South Africa: A Detailed Tasting Note & Food Pairing Guide for Meerlust Estate Red

Introduction

South Africa's Stellenbosch region is renowned for its captivating wines, and Meerlust Estate Red stands as a prime example. This Bordeaux-style blend offers a delightful tapestry of flavours, making it a favourite amongst wine enthusiasts worldwide. Let's embark on a journey through its tasting profile and explore the perfect food pairings to elevate your culinary experience.

Tasting Notes

• Appearance: Meerlust Estate Red boasts a youthful, deep garnet colour with a hint of purple hues.
• Nose: The initial aroma is a vibrant burst of black currant and black cherry, intertwined with subtle suggestions of cassis and plum. As the wine opens up, hints of spice, like cinnamon and clove, emerge, adding a touch of festive warmth.
• Palate: The first impression on the palate is a delightful balance of sweetness and spice. The dark fruit flavours from the nose translate beautifully, with hints of plum and blackberry taking centre stage. Notes of vanilla and a touch of oak complexity emerge, followed by a hint of cedar and tobacco. The tannins are firm yet well-integrated, providing a pleasant structure that lingers on the finish. The overall impression is one of elegance and refinement.

Food Pairing Suggestions

Meerlust Estate Red's versatility allows it to shine alongside a variety of dishes:

• Hearty Red Meat: Pair it with a juicy grilled steak, roast lamb with rosemary, or a slow-cooked venison stew for a harmonious marriage of flavours. The wine's tannins can handle the richness of the meat, while the fruit notes complement the savoury elements.
• Winter Comfort Food: Enjoy it with a hearty shepherd's pie, a rich beef bourguignon, or a creamy mushroom risotto. The wine's warmth and spice will cut through the richness of these dishes, creating a satisfying and balanced experience.
• Mature Cheeses: Complement the wine's complexity with aged cheddar, Gouda, or a robust Stilton. The cheese's richness stands up to the tannins, while the wine's fruit notes enhance the cheese's flavour profile.
• Mediterranean Cuisine: Explore lamb kebabs with a touch of char, roasted vegetables with herbs like thyme and oregano, or a rich moussaka. The wine's peppery notes will complement the herbs, while the fruit will pair beautifully with the charred vegetables and tomato-based dishes.

About Meerlust Estate Red

Hailing from the renowned Stellenbosch region in South Africa, Meerlust Estate Red is crafted using a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot grapes. The grapes are meticulously sourced from select vineyard blocks, ensuring exceptional quality and consistency. The wine undergoes fermentation in stainless steel tanks and matures in French oak barrels for a period of 14-16 months, allowing the flavours to develop and integrate seamlessly.