2011-RUSTENBERG-John-X-Merriman

RUSTENBERG

2011 John X Merriman

Grapes Cab Franc, Cab Sauv, Merlot
Colour Red
Origin South Africa
ABV 14.5%

This blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, matured in a combination of new and second-fill oak for 18 to 20 months is Rustenberg's very fine attempt at a Bordeaux style wine. Medium-weight, finely-packed fruit, harmonious and beautifully crafted. L&S (Feb 2014)


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The 2011 John X Merriman was blended from 17 lots that were vinified separately and sees 20 months in new French oak. It is much more closed than the 2010 despite rigorous coaxing. The palate is well-balanced with fine tannin and a little more tension than the previous vintage, gradually building in the mouth toward an intense, white pepper, savory finish. I would give this five or six years in bottle because it may ultimately out-perform the 2010. Drink 2016-2024 Rating: 93 Neal Martin, www.vinous.com (Jan 2015)

This has gorgeous flavors of dark plum, currant preserves and fig paste, enlivened with licorice snap, fruitcake and black tea notes. Solidly grippy, but polished and well-integrated overall. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc and Malbec. Best from 2015 through 2020.—J.M. Rating: 92 James Molesworth, The Wine Spectator (Jun 2014)

It may have gone up a tad in price but the latest vintage of this consistently good value Bordeaux-style blend from one of the Cape's finest estates maintains the quality with its deep-hued ruby colour and veneer of polished oak sitting over a bright Cabernet leafiness and sumptuously chocolatey, blackcurrant fruit quality, all of which adds up to style and flavour. Rating: 90 The Wine Gang - www.thewinegang.com (Jun 2014)

Rustenberg

Vineyards producing the grapes for Rustenberg's wines climb the rich red slopes of the Simonsberg and Helderberg. The style of wine determines the vineyard to be used: Rustenberg has a history of success with reds.

The viticulturist, Nico Walters, and his dedicated team have been working hard to rejuvenate their vineyards by planting virus-free vines imported from France. A small-scale nursery has been started for propagation, providing available rootstock for upgrading, replanting and experimentation. Controlled irrigation is used when necessary to alleviate stressed vines and maximise the quality of the grapes. All grapes are hand-harvested in the early mornings and all vineyard blocks vinified separately, then blended for added complexity.

This wine isn't currently part of a mixed case, but you can always browse our full selection of mixed cases here.
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