Handford Wines

Exciting new producers may abound in South Africa, but Meerlust, one of the oldest kids on the block, continues to make some of the best wines in the country. These are wines that provoke a reaction, and Giorgio Della Cia, winemaker for 21 years, and now successor Chris Williams, wouldn't have it any other way. In an era when people seem to demand big, ripe, immediate, fruity wines, Meerlust decided it did not want overripe wines. "I am looking beyond the fruity style" winemaker Giorgio Dalla Cia would always exclaim. His wines looked firmly to France for their inspiration and even the Chardonnay demanded bottle age like a top Meursault before it “came around”. The Rubicon is the flagship Bordeaux style red blend that has been turning heads since its first release in the late 1970's. Also try the super Pomerol-like Merlot or the Burgundian Pinot Noir. A true South African Icon winery.

The Wine

The super new vintage from Chris Williams at Meerlust. Now released earlier with less bottle age than under previous winemaker Dalla Cia, the 2006 is more citrus fruit driven and primary, with wonderful layers of elegant oak spice and nutty, buttery, minerality. A great example of South African Chardonnay that has something of Burgundy about its style. Meerlust lovers will be seduced as always.

Single Bottle: £16.99

In a case of 12: £16.14