Rust en Vrede

Background Specialising in the production of red wine only, Rust en Vrede has established itself as one of South Africa's premium red wine estates. Full-bodied and complex, Rust en Vrede wines reflect the uniqueness of the Stellenbosch terroir. Rust en Vrede is proud to be part of a remarkable three hundred year old wine tradition and continues to pursue the excellence synonymous with wines produced by Stellenbosch's private estates.

Mediterranean rainfall ± 650mm per annum. The vineyards are situated on north facing slopes at the upper end of the valley, hence the slightly warmer and more moderate climatic conditions, resulting in optimum grape berry ripeness. Situated in close proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, cool sea breezes help reduce the vineyard temperatures during the summer months, extending the ripening period and thus allowing for big well-structured wines to develop.

The soil is a mixture of weathered granite and a small percentage of clay, Clovelly and Hutton structure. Deep and red in colour, the soil shows good water retention, allowing for only moderate vine stress during dry years. Soil moisture is carefully monitored and supplemented by drip irrigation in very dry years only.

The fermentation of this single-vineyard Syrah takes place in open-top fermenters. Pumped over and the cap manually punched down five times per day. Primary fermentation took 7 days, followed by a 10 day maceration period. Malolactic fermentation took place partly in steel tanks and partly in barrels. Following fermentation the wine will mature for 18 months in 100% new oak barrels; 75% American and 25% French oak.

2006

Colour :	Deep vibrant opaque.
Aroma :	Outspoken aromas of mocha and liquorice are backed up with subtle notes of jasmine.
Palate :	A powerful wine with a well defined tannin structure. Ripe tannins offer great length on the palate with a silky smooth finish.