When it comes to Karoo lamb, flavour, tenderness, and sustainability are everything. At Algerynskraal Farm in the heart of the Klein Karoo, we are proud to introduce a breed that combines the very best of two remarkable sheep: the Meatmaster and the Merino. Our new Merimaster sheep embody the hardiness of the Meatmaster and the fine-fleece tradition of the Merino, while producing lamb of outstanding quality. This combination represents the future of Karoo lamb farming – resilient, sustainable, and delicious.

The Meatmaster: Built for the Karoo
The Meatmaster breed has long been celebrated for its resilience in tough climates. Originating in South Africa, this sheep thrives in semi-arid regions like the Klein Karoo where temperatures swing from scorching days to icy nights. Meatmasters are known for:
- Exceptional meat quality – tender, juicy, with a strong natural flavour thanks to veld grazing.
- Parasite resistance – making them easier to manage with fewer interventions.
- Strong maternal instincts – ensuring healthier, well-nurtured lambs.
The Meatmaster’s meat is praised for its marbling and succulence, making it a favourite among chefs and consumers looking for naturally raised lamb. (See more about Meatmaster qualities from the South African Meatmaster Sheep Breeders’ Society)
The Merino: Wool and Flavour in Harmony
The Merino sheep is world-renowned for its fine, soft wool, but what many overlook is its meat quality. Merino lamb is lean, delicate, and tender – perfect for discerning palates. While not as hardy as the Meatmaster, Merinos have contributed generations of genetic excellence in:
- Wool production – premium fibres sought after worldwide.
- Balanced growth rates – producing consistent lambs of good size.
- Meat flavour – mild yet distinct, reflecting the natural Karoo veld.
Globally, the Merino is respected as a dual-purpose breed. By combining Merino genetics with the Meatmaster, we create a lamb that offers both premium wool and top-tier meat quality. (Learn more from International Wool Textile Organisation)

The Merimaster: Where Hardiness Meets Flavour
By crossing the Meatmaster and Merino, we’ve created our own Merimaster sheep – uniquely adapted to the Klein Karoo. These sheep inherit:
- Hardiness and adaptability from the Meatmaster.
- Fine wool qualities from the Merino.
- Superb meat characteristics from both breeds – a balance of tenderness, juiciness, and flavour.
What makes Merimaster Karoo lamb truly stand out is the grazing environment. The Klein Karoo’s veld is rich in fynbos, spekboom, and aromatic shrubs, which infuse the lamb with a distinctive and unforgettable flavour. This natural terroir is what gives Karoo lamb its international reputation for excellence. (Read more about the value of Karoo lamb on Karoo Meat of Origin)
Why Karoo Lamb is Different
Unlike mass-produced meat, Karoo lamb is slow-raised on natural pastures. The sheep graze freely on diverse vegetation, resulting in:
- A richer, more complex flavour profile.
- Healthier, leaner meat with natural marbling.
- Sustainable farming that respects the land.

Our Merimaster Karoo lamb offers exactly this: meat that is both environmentally responsible and gastronomically rewarding.
From Pasture to Plate
At Algerynskraal, we don’t just raise sheep – we nurture a tradition of sustainable farming. Our Merimaster lambs thrive on veld grazing, without the need for intensive feeding systems. This results in:
- Happy, stress-free animals
- Superior meat quality
- A natural Karoo flavour you can taste in every bite
Visitors to our farm and guests at Magoo on 62 Guesthouse have the opportunity to see the flock, learn about our breeding programme, and taste the results of our efforts – true Karoo lamb excellence.
Plan Your Karoo Experience
There is no better way to discover the flavour of the Karoo than to experience it yourself. Book your stay at Magoo on 62 Guesthouse – where luxury meets farm life – and enjoy the taste of Karoo lamb straight from the veld to your plate.
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