19th century, Modern, Post-War and Contemporary Art, Decorative Arts, Jewellery and Wine

Live Virtual Auction, 10 - 11 May 2020

Important announcement regarding the terms and conditions of this auction.

This auction is being conducted during a National State of Disaster in South Africa and in accordance with the various Regulations passed by the Government in South Africa in response. Presently, South Africa’s National State of Disaster is at Level 4, which limits certain commercial activity. Read More →

 Terms and Conditions for Online Auctions (517.08 KB)

 Privacy Policy for Online Auctions (198.46 KB)

Wine

Sold for

ZAR 18 760
Lot 75
  • Meerlust; Rubicon; 1994; 6 (1 x 6); 750ml


Lot Estimate
ZAR 8 000 - 10 000
Selling Price
Incl. Buyer's Premium & VAT
ZAR 18 760

About this Item

1994 Rubicon
6 (1 x 6) 750ml

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.

Finally, in 1980 after several years of experimentation with fellow winemaker Giorgio Dalla Cia, their new estate was born and it was unlike anything South Africa had seen before. 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.

Provenance

Private Client

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)

'The 1994 is traditional in style with a freshness that belies its age, red berry fruit and delicate complexity.' Roland Peens 91 points 2019

View all Meerlust lots for sale in this auction