Rust en Vrede

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.

In-depth scientific research is embarked on before planting new vines - great care is taken to seek out optimum vineyard sites (aspect, soil types, altitude, etc.) that would be most suitable to a particular varietal genetic clone. The vineyards are carefully trellised and the canopy managed in such a way so as to ensure optimum phenolic ripeness of the grapes. Two ‘green harvests' are done annually whereby the crop is reduced to between 6-8 tons per hectare to intensify flavours.

The Shiraz was fermented in open tank fermentors and pumped over five times per day. Each Shiraz clone (6) sees a unique treatment of yeast and wood. Matured fifty percent in new French oak and fifty percent American oak (half new and half second fill), the wood maturation lasts 18 months. After blending the different Shiraz clones, the wine undergoes bottle-maturation for a further eighteen months before being released.

2006 2005

Colour :	Bright opaque red.
Aroma :	Outspoken aromas of red fruit create the initial impression, which gives way to strong floral aspects. A complex nose with jasmine undertones.
Palate :	This wine shows all the characteristics of an exceptional Shiraz. Complex with well integrated tannins offering a soft lingering finish.

2004

Colour:	Deep garnet red.
Aroma:	This fruit driven nose is both complex and interesting, backed up by subtle chocolate and cigar box aromas.
Palate:	The fruit driven aromas filter onto the palate with a soft juicy finish.

2003

Colour:	Deep garnet red.
Aroma:	Dark chocolate, cinnamon, black current and Christmas cake.
Palate:	Intense full bodied red wine packed with ripe plum and rich chocolate flavours, backed by oak spice and red berries. Well rounded tannins ending in a pleasant, long, lingering aftertaste.

2002

Colour:	Deep garnet red.
Aroma:	Mulberries, plums and prunes gently infused with rose petals and cinnamon.
Palate:	Mouth-filling, broad mid-palate. Well structured with liquorice, red berries and a hint of white pepper. Well rounded tannins ending in a pleasant, long, lingering aftertaste. All components are well integrated resulting in an elegant, yet powerful wine.

2001

Colour :	Deep mulberry red.
Aroma :	Flavours of dark plum, cherry, leather, smoked bacon are infused with subtle oak.
Palate :	Incredible fusion of pepper, spice, cherry with floral and Eucalyptus notes. Long, clean elegant finish.

2000

Colour :	Deep mulberry red.
Aroma :	Exploding blackberry and mulberry flavours. Liquorice with nutmeg and tobacco bouquet.
Palate :	Well-balanced, fresh and elegant with long finish.

This Wine