Meerlust Pinot Noir 2016

Meerlust Pinot Noir 2016, South Africa

(£17-22, 2015 vintage currently at The Wine Society, Four Walls, Hedonism or via WineSearcher) 

I remember my first visit to Meerlust, back in 2003.

Over a very convivial lunch with gravel-voiced owner Hannes Myburgh, a fair old quantity of his fine Pinot Noir was polished off over a plate of simple but delicious food, beside a roaring fire and under the watchful eye of at least one large stuffed animal head (unless that was the Pinot making me see things).

I was reminded of these simple, life-affirming pleasures that wine can give when I tasted a couple of Meerlust Pinots with Hannes and his UK importers, MMD. I liked the 2015 but this new 2016 vintage seemed more tense, taut and invigorating. A wine that will develop very well over time, yet retain a wonderful refreshment value and ability to partner food. It’s not yet on the market but, when it is, it will be well worth buying a few to lay down – and a few to drink.

(7.5-8/10, Peter, Jan 2017)