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.

Fermented in open top fermentation vats, pressed and left to mature in French 300L barrels for 18 months. The Cabernet clones (6) are kept separate throughout vinification, each getting a unique treatment of yeast and wood. After 18 months, the different clones are blended, bottled and left to mature for at least 18 months before release.

2006

Colour :	Opaque with a bright purple rim.
Aroma :	Ripe black currant and mulberry aromas followed by dark cherry, plum and fine oak.
Palate :	eep and rich with layers of black fruit flavours balanced by some cedary oak. Signs of youthful fruit come to the fore, followed by a long, fruit-filled finish with spicy notes at the end.

2005

Colour :	Dark Ruby Colour.
Aroma :	Prominent aromas of fresh blackberries and violets with subtle hints of red fruit.
Palate :	This wine shows great balance with well integrated tannins and a long juicy finish..

2004

Colour :	Opaque
Aroma :	Cherry and Chocolate aromas backed up by hints of spice from the French oak.
Palate :	A very elegant wine with huge tannin structure, lovely fruit and great mid palate weight. This spice oriented Cabernet Sauvignon is supported by chocolate, tobacco and aniseed flavours on the palate.

2003

Colour :	Deep crimson.
Aroma :	Classic, cassis, violets, pencil shavings with undertones of cedar.
Palate :	Fresh red fruit flavour dominate with violets and cedar in the background. Tightly structured with a beautiful elegant balance.

2002

Colour :	Concentrated crimson.
Aroma :	Black berries, cassis, earthy with undertones of cedar, fynbos and wild mushrooms.
Palate :	Bouquet carrying through to the palate. Black berries and cedar most notable. Good fruit flavour / wood balance. Refined, elegant tannin structure.

2001

Colour :	Brick red.
Aroma :	Ripe black berries, cassis, pencil shavings, cedar and earth.
Palate :	Green pepper, ripe black berries with good fruit, balanced with firm tannins. Long finish and great food wine.

2000

Colour :	Garnet red with a tawny rim.
Aroma :	Array of berry flavors, ripe fruit and earth.
Palate :	Elegant, well balanced with a soft tannin structure and long concentrated finish.