Meerlust Rubicon 2020

92 Points Wine Spectator A fragrant red, with dried mint, bay leaf and cigar box notes wafting through the ripe black currant, hot stone and apple wood smoke. This is long and well-meshed, layering the creamy profile with sculpted tannins and balsamico acidity. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Drink now through 2035.

92 Points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate The 2020 Rubicon is composed mainly of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, with Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot in lesser proportions. The wine marks a triumphant return, after no Rubicon was released in 2019. The wine is densely fruit-forward, tightly wound and dusty, with clean aromatics that round out its robust character. It features a balanced, elegantly powerful palate with refreshing tannins and consistent acidity that keeps everything in check. The finish is notably food friendly, echoing with nuances of lead pencil. After eight months in the barrel, the components were blended and aged for an additional 10 months in barrels.

91 Points James Suckling Dark berries, dried herbs, cedar and dried spices on the nose following through to full body with firm tannins. Rich core of dark berries at the center with a grippy texture around the edges and a compact, chewy finish. Try after 2024.