Rust En Vrede Estate Vineyards Syrah 2018
Rust en Vrede's Estate Vineyard Syrah is a typical expression of Stellenbosch, and owner Jean Engelbrecht's favourite variety. Chosen in 2016 as one of Wine Spectator's top 100 wines of the world.
With a Mediterranean climate, Rust en Vrede is a warmer microcosm in the Helderberg area. This is why we specialise in reds, particularly Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah which lend themselves to full bodied wines with powerful structure. Approximately 34% of the Estate is planted with Syrah.
Vintage:
100% Syrah the vintage of 2018 was challenging because it was the fourth consecutive year of drought, bringing dry conditions with water restrictions. Careful water management was essential, but the benefit of the dry weather was very healthy vines. The dry conditions also resulted in smaller berries, which in turn provide excellent colour and flavour intensity. Cooler nights towards the end of February meant a longer hang time, allowing for further flavour development. Despite the irrigation challenges and a smaller crop, 2018 bodes very well for high quality wines.
Estate grown grapes are hand-harvested and partially destemmed, with 15% of the grapes kept as whole bunches. Fermentation takes place in open-top fermenters with manual punch-downs and pump-overs performed 2 to 4 times daily. Maceration continues for 14 to 21 days. Parcels and clones are vinified separately. Wine is matured in 500L French oak barrels for 18 months using a combination of 20% new and 80% seasoned oak.
Tasting Notes:
Fragrant blueberry, red cherry, and a hint of floral perfume open up to reveal fresh plum with layered sweet and savoury spices. The complex fruit flavours follow on the palate with fine but grippy tannins and a fresh fruity acidity. Typical spiciness is layered and complex - cardamom, fennel, black pepper, nutmeg and clove, with the delicate use of oak complimenting the spiciness. Refined yet powerful with a lingering fruity finish.
Best Enjoyed: Beef, lamb, poultry and venison
Ageing Potential: 10 to 15 years
Accolades:
2018 - Platters 4 Stars
2017 - Platters 4 Stars
2016 - Tim Atkins 93 Points, Platters 4 Stars
2015 - Tim Atkins 92 Points, Platters 4.5 Stars, Wine Spectator 90 Points
2014 - Wine Spectator 92 Points, Wine Spectator Top 100 2016