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Rustenberg - John X Merriman Stellenbosch 2022 (750ml)
Price: $34.99
Sale Price: $27.99
| Producer | Rustenberg |
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| Country | South Africa |
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| Region | Stellenbosch |
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| Varietal | Red Blend |
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| Vintage | 2022 |
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| Sku | 02209 |
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| Size | 750ml |
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"This South African red blend is a sophisticated and structured wine, crafted in a classic Bordeaux style, showcasing layers of dark fruit, savory notes, and well-integrated oak. It is designed to reward aging but can be enjoyed in its youth with decanting. Nose: The aromatics are complex and evolving. In its youth, expect pronounced notes of cassis, blackcurrant, and dark plum. As it opens up or with a few years of age, layers of cigar tobacco, cedar, and graphite emerge, alongside subtle hints of sour cherry and baking spices (like cinnamon or black pepper). A deeper exploration might reveal nuances of earth, leather, or dark chocolate. Palate: On the palate, the wine is typically full-bodied with a firm, yet refined tannic structure. Flavors of blackcurrant, blackberry, and dark cherry dominate, often accompanied by savory notes of bell pepper, olive, or a hint of mint. The oak aging contributes to a luxurious texture and subtle flavors of vanilla and toast. It possesses a balanced acidity that provides freshness and length, preventing the wine from feeling heavy despite its intensity. It's often described as having a lovely "weight in the mid-palate" and a "polished, creamy" feel. Finish: The finish is long, persistent, and satisfying, with the dark fruit, savory elements, and fine-grained tannins lingering. As the wine ages, these tannins soften, and a more savory, complex palate develops, revealing excellent drinkability and tertiary nuances. Pairing Grilled or Roasted Beef Steak: Ribeye, New York Strip, Porterhouse. The char and fat are perfect for this wine. Roast Lamb: Especially lamb rack or leg, with herbs like rosemary and garlic. Prime Rib or Beef Tenderloin: Its elegance and structure will shine with these cuts. Venison and other Game Meats: The wine's earthy and savory notes will harmonize with game. About Rustenberg Wines is one of South Africa's oldest and most historically significant wine estates, located in the prime wine-growing region of Stellenbosch. Rustenberg's winemaking history dates back to 1682, making it one of the oldest wine farms in the Western Cape. It lies nestled in the Simonsberg valley, known for its ideal terroir. The estate has a rich heritage, having been revitalized by figures like John X. Merriman (after whom this wine is named) during the phylloxera crisis in the late 19th century. The Barlow family has owned and run Rustenberg for over 80 years, continuously working to restore and enhance the vineyards and estate."
