Rust En Vrede Single Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2018
The Single Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon was a natural addition to the range following the success of the Single Vineyard Syrah. A pure expression of only the best Cabernet Sauvignon that Rust en Vrede has to offer.
With a Mediterranean climate, Rust en Vrede is a warmer microcosm within the Helderberg area. This is why the vineyard focuses on Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah, which lend themselves to full bodied wines with powerful structure. This Single Vineyard (Block 4) produces the highest quality Cabernet Sauvignon on the Estate. Planted in 2000 in Tukulu soil which derives from Helderberg granite and Table Mountain sandstone, with small deposits of iron stone, showing good water retention which allows for only moderate vine stress during dry years. A higher amount of sandstone allows more drainage which results in weaker growth and more intense wines, carefully monitored and supplemented by drip irrigation.
Vintage
100% Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 saw the drought of the previous few years continuing. Very dry conditions with rainfall well below average, along with cool spring conditions resulted in smaller berries. Careful irrigation in the summer months was supplemented by rain just after véraison. Cool summer nights dropping consistently below 20°C allowed the grapes to ripen slowly, retaining acidity and encouraging excellent formation of colour. Harvest at Rust en Vrede started on the 20th of February 2017. The cooler vintage is bold, structured and intense with the various components in the wines creating beautiful harmony.
Made from a designated Single Vineyard (Block 4), these Estate-grown grapes are picked and sorted by hand. Each harvest-parcel and individual clones are vinified separately. Clusters are destemmed, crushed and pumped into open top fermentation tanks where they undergo a 14- 21-day maceration period involving a 7-day fermentation with pump-overs and manual punch-downs 2-4 times daily. Barrel maturation in 100% French oak barrels (50% new, 50% 2nd fill), in 300l barrels for 22 months.
Tasting Notes:
This Cabernet Sauvignon shows off 2017’s deep, almost opaque colour. Aromas of rich, concentrated cassis, black cherry and blue berry evolve into more floral and spicy notes of jasmine, juniper and cinnamon. Savoury notes of cumin emerge as the wine opens up. Fine, grippy tannins combine with a vibrant acidity to create a taut, structured wine. Intense black fruit follows though from the nose with flavours of dark chocolate, all spice and a savoury note of tobacco leaf adding to the complexity. The finish is crisp and dry with notes of sweet baking spices.
Best Enjoyed:
Beef, lamb and poultry
Ageing Potential: 10 to 15 years
Accolades:
2017 - Platters 5 Stars, Wine Mag Cabernet Report 92 Points
2016 - Tim Atkins 92 Points, Platters 5 Stars, Platters Cabernet Of The Year
2015 - Tim Atkins 95 Points, Platters 5 Stars, Wine Spectator 92 Points
