South African & International Fine Wine
Live Auction, 14 September 2019
Session Two
Incl. Buyer's Premium & VAT
About this Item
Meerlust Estate, owned by the Myburgh family, has been in the family for eight generations. Located 5km from False Bay, the property was given the name 'Meerlust' from the original owner, which means 'pleasure of the sea'. The Meerlust name is synonymous with tradition, elegance and longevity. In fact, it was their Cabernet Sauvignon, produced since 1975, that was the first to carry the Meerlust label.
Made by Giorgio, the name ‘Rubicon’ is from ancient Roman days as the crucial border of the ancient capital was named the Rubicon River. When the border was crossed it was deemed as an irrevocable point in history, much like the introduction of Rubicon to the South African fine wine market. The 1994 is traditional in style with a freshness that belies its age.
Critics Ratings
‘For many – including followers abroad – this remains an ultimate name and statement in Cape claret style. Rubicon remains the quintessence of refined understatement – serious, medium-textured vinosity, ripe but not overripe berry flavours, moderate grip from tannins, essentially dry rather than fruity-sweet. Winemaker Dalla Cia considers Rubicon a “better, richer, more complex wine than cabernet sauvignon on its own could ever be”. Here, the blend is about 65-70% cabernet, 20-25% merlot, balance Cabernet. Franc. New Nevers barrel-matured about 18 months to 2 years, through malo. Dalla Cia has never wavered stylistically: while others see-sawed between bold fruity “New World modernity” and “Cape tradition” this Bordeaux-style standard-bearer has kept a constant course, for nearly 2 decades, openly aiming at European restraint and vinosity. 94 splendid array of layered fruit, tannin, oak.’ – Platter’s SA Wine Guide (1999)
Provenance
Private Client
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