Meerlust Estate Rubicon

Meerlust Estate Rubicon stands as a South African icon – a majestic Cape Bordeaux blend of immense poise and history. Crafted from the renowned Stellenbosch estate, Rubicon unites Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot in perfect harmony, offering structure, power and timeless elegance.

Tasting Notes & Experience

Deep and vibrant in colour, Rubicon opens with violets, ripe plum, cedar and fennel over a core of blackcurrant and spice. The palate is full-bodied and structured yet graceful, layered with dark fruit, liquorice and fine oak. Polished tannins and balanced acidity carry through to a long, seamless finish of sophistication.

Key Details

• Winery: Meerlust Estate
• Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon 48 %, Merlot 46 %, Cabernet Franc 5 %, Petit Verdot 1 %
• Region: Stellenbosch, South Africa
• Alcohol: 14.2 %
• Volume: 750 ml
• Other: Estate-grown; matured 18 months in French oak

Craftsmanship & Story

Founded in 1693, Meerlust is one of the Cape’s most storied estates, owned by the Myburgh family for over eight generations. Inspired by Bordeaux and the cool maritime climate of False Bay, Rubicon was first created in 1980 by Nico Myburgh and winemaker Giorgio Dalla Cia. Each varietal is vinified separately and matured in French oak before blending, achieving the hallmark balance of power, elegance and ageability.

Special Features

Rubicon captures Stellenbosch’s maritime grace and granite-clay soils in a wine of depth and poise. Aged for 18 months in French oak, it delivers layered fruit purity, savoury complexity and a silky tannin structure. A benchmark Cape Bordeaux blend of global acclaim and cellaring pedigree.

Recognition & Accolades

Celebrated worldwide as one of South Africa’s greatest reds, the 2021 Rubicon has achieved extraordinary critical praise.

• 98/100 Points – Tim Atkin MW, SA Special Report 2024 (2021 vintage)
• 96+/100 Points – Greg Sherwood MW, Wine Safari Score (2021 vintage)
• 96/100 Points – Jamie Goode, Wine Anorak (May 2025 Tasting) (2021 vintage)
• 5 Stars & 95/100 Points – Platter’s Wine Guide 2024 (2021 vintage)
• 95/100 Points – Chris Eedes, Winemag.co.za (2021 vintage)
• 95/100 Points – Natalie MacLean, Expert Wine Review (2021 vintage)
• 91/100 Points – Neal Martin, Vinous Media (Aug 2024 Tasting) (2021 vintage)
• 18.5/20 Points – Vinum Wine Magazine (Sep 2024 Tasting) (2021 vintage)
• 17/20 Points – Tamlyn Currin, JancisRobinson.com (Sep 2024 Tasting) (2021 vintage)

Such accolades affirm Rubicon’s position among the world’s finest Bordeaux-style reds — expressive, layered and profoundly age-worthy.

Food Pairings

Rubicon’s deep plum and cassis richness, framed by cedar and spice, pairs exquisitely with roast lamb or slow-braised venison, where savoury depth meets supple tannins. Its elegance flatters beef Wellington or wild-mushroom ragù, while aged cheddar or pecorino accentuate its dark-fruit complexity and lingering finish.

Perfect for Gifting or Sipping

A wine of heritage and grandeur, Meerlust Rubicon is ideal for discerning collectors or those seeking a statement of classic refinement. A true legend of South Africa’s winemaking landscape.

Fast, Secure NZ-Wide Delivery

Order online for fast NZ delivery. Lovingly packed with a selection of stylish packaging and a personal message option to complete the perfect gift.