If ever there were a wine with main-character energy, it’s Rubicon. After a trip to Bordeaux, Meerlust’s Nico Myburgh came home inspired to create a South African take on the great French blends, convinced the estate’s terroir shared some of that magic. Built around cabernet sauvignon, with merlot, cabernet franc and petit verdot in the mix, Rubicon was first released in 1980 and went on to become one of the country’s most defining reds – and proof that Stellenbosch could play in very serious company.
Our pick this week:
Meerlust Rubicon
R669.99, Woolworths
Why we love it:
A familiar name in many South African cellars, and still one of the great local classics. Meerlust’s Rubicon remains a benchmark for Bordeaux-style blends, all dark fruit, blackcurrant and cedar, with a savoury edge. Think of it as the brooding lead in a well-written romance. Give it a proper decant before pouring, then pair it with something suitably comforting, from hearty beef Bourguignon to a rich pasta finished with plenty of aged Parmesan.
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