Rust en Vrede Shiraz

Romazini: 4/5 Stars

The Winespectator: 90/100 Points

Vintage 2003: This Syrah is loaded with a range of herb, chocolate, red currant, violet and mineral notes, but stays streamlined and focused, with taut tannins and racy acidity. Lengthy, distinctive and balanced.

The Winemaker

Background: First to specialise in the exclusive production of red wine only, Rust en Vrede is now South Africa's Premium red wine estate. The full-bodied, new-oak matured wines are a manifestation of the supremacy of the Stellenbosch region when it comes to the making of truly great red wines. Rust en Vrede is proud to be part of this and continues to pursue the excellence that has characterized wines from Stellenbosch and specifically the private estates, which undoubtedly are the heartbeat of this magnificent region.
Climate: Mediterranean - rainfall about 650mm per annum. Vineyards situated on north facing slopes and at the end of the valley hence slightly warmer conditions.
Soil: Deep red soils. A mixture of weathered granite and a small percentage of clay, Clovelly and Hutton structure.
Vinification/Maturing: Harvested at 24°B. Fermented in open tank fermentors. Pumped over five times per day. After fermentation, the wine was matured 50% in new American oak and 50% French oak barriques for 18 months. After bottling, this wine is put down for a minimum of 12 months to mature further before release.
Tasting Notes:
Colour : Deep mulberry red.
Aroma : Exploding black- and mulberry flavours. Liquorice with nutmeg and tobacco bouquet.
Palate : Well-balanced, fresh and elegant with long finish.

Stephen Tanzer: 87/100 Points

Vintage 2001: Good ruby-red. Enticing aromas of raspberry, violet, leather, chocolate and meat. Sweet and supple but firm, with berry, flint and mineral flavors along with a distinctly funky leathery quality. I would have scored this higher but for its rather rustic finishing flavors.