2010 Rust en Vrede Estate Red Blend

Tasting Notes

Color :Deep crimson Red.

Aroma: Aromas of cumin and cassis are supported by fresh blueberries and notes of shortbread on the finish.

Palate: Well integrated tannins with lush red fruit give the initial impression. Red licorice and savory flavors carries through on the palate with ample grip on the finish.

Established in 1694, Rust en Vrede is proud to be part of a remarkable three hundred year old wine tradition. Since 1977 the Engelbrecht family has specialized in the exclusive production of red wine, with the focus on Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Proprietor Jean Engelbrecht has worked to establish Rust en Vrede as one of South Africa’s premium red wine estates, with full-bodied and complex wines that reflect the uniqueness of the Helderberg terroir.

Climate: Mediterranean climate with ± 650mm rainfall per annum. The Estate is located on the lower lying slopes of the Helderberg between 85m -130m above sea level. Vineyards are mostly situated on north facing slopes with a small portion on north-east and north-west facing slopes to create subtle nuances in aspect. Shielded from South Easterly winds by the Helderberg and Stellenbosch mountains, and from the South Westerly winds by the foothills of the Helderberg, Rust en Vrede is a warmer microcosm in the Helderberg area, which is why we specialize in reds, particularly Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon which lend themselves to full bodied wines with powerful structure.

Soil: The soil type is Tukulu and derives from a mixture of decomposed Helderberg granite and Table Mountain sandstone. Soil moisture is carefully monitored and supplemented by drip irrigation. A philosophy of precision viticulture is applied. The vineyards are vertically trellised and the canopy managed in such a way so as to ensure optimum phenolic ripeness of the grapes. Vineyards are managed in an environmentally conscious way.

Vinification/Maturing: The grapes were harvested in February 2011. Primary fermentation took 7 days, followed by 21 days maceration.  Malolactic fermentation took place in barrels after which the wine was left to mature for 18 months in French oak. The wine undergoes bottle-maturation for a further 18 months before being released.