Bordeaux Theme
Live Virtual Auction, 17 September 2023
Bordeaux
Incl. Buyer's Premium & VAT
About this Item
Founded in 1682, Rustenberg Estate on the Simonsberg foothills is one of the most historic and picturesque farms in South Africa. The farm was previously split into two estates, until 1945 when industrialist Peter Barlow purchased both farms and reunited them. Rustenberg is family-owned with son of Peter Barlow, Simon, owning the estate and grandson, Murray (2 x Diners Club Young Winemaker of the Year) now cellar master.
In 1892 the farm had previously been divided into two pieces and was nearing on derelict when ‘future’ Prime Minister of the Cape, John X Merriman, stepped in with his brother-in-law Sir Jacob Barry to rescue both farms. He played a great role in revitalizing Rustenberg and in promoting the tourism and agricultural value of Ida’s Valley, the area close to the town of Stellenbosch in which Rustenberg is situated. The John X Merriman is Rustenberg's Estate wine.
Provenance
Wine Cellar Private Client
Critics Ratings
‘Increased Cabernet evident in powerful 2006 (45% Cabernet Sauvignon, balance Merlot, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec 38/13/3/1). Glossy high-toned ripeness presently accompanied by persistent grip. Oak-polished (50% new).’ - Platter’s SA Wine Guide 2009, 4.5*
‘This Bordeaux blend offers a nose of vibrant crushed herb, plum, tobacco and black cherry, leading into layers of cigarbox, plum, spices and cherry. Integrated but assertive, it could use more aging but is elegant now. A lingering finish adds to the appeal.’ - Susan Kostrzewa, Wine Enthusiast, 91/100 (Dec 2009)
'Full, saturated medium ruby. Primal aromas of blackcurrant, licorice and exotic flowers. Rich, broad and smoky, with superb fat and depth. Very ripe dark berry flavors are complicated by hints of truffle and tobacco leaf. This layered, large-scaled wine is extremely young today. Finishes quite dry and uncompromising, with big, chewy tannins and powerful backbone' - Stephen Tanzer, Vinous, 91+/100 (Mar 2009)
'Pretty closed, maybe even a little reductive, but not overly so. Fine leafy Cab Franc-like nose, more so on the palate. Fresh and expressive fruit purity with a tight but very smooth, dry fine-grained tannin texture. Still very young but so well behaved. Plenty of pure fruit combined with elegance of texture. Still a baby.' - Julia Harding MW, JancisRobinson.com, 16.5/20 (Oct 2009)
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