Rust en Vrede Merlot - 2001,
2002, 2003, 2004, 2005 , 2006
| Grape Variety: |
Merlot 100%
|
| Vintage
: |
2003
|
| Appellation: |
Stellenbosch
|
| Winemaker
: |
Louis Strydom
|
| Chemical
Analysis: |
Alcohol – 14,5 vol%
pH – 3,72
Acidity– 5,5 g/l
Res. sugar – 2,6 g/l |
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"No poem was ever written by a drinker
of water. (Horace 65-8B.C.). More than 2000 years later this statement
remains unchallenged." - J.E.
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’s wines reflect the uniqueness of Stellenbosch terroir. Rust en Vrede is a remarkable three hundred years old wine tradition synonymous with wines produced by Stellenbosch’s private estates.
Climate
Mediterranean –rainfall ± 650mm per annum. Vineyards situated on north facing slopes and at the end of the valley - hence slightly warmer conditions that ensure a ripe fruity Merlot.
Soil
Deep red soils. A mixture of weathered granite and small percentage of clay, Clovelly and Hutton structure. No irrigation on most vineyards resulted in a fine and natural feed of water to the vines. The soils show excellent water retention and the vines’ well developed root system looks after the rest.
Vinification/Maturing
The grapes were harvested in February 2003. Fermentation was completed in the barrels. 80% of the Merlot was left to mature for 15 months in new French oak barriques and 20% in 2 nd fill French oak barriques.
Tasting Notes
| Colour : |
Crimson garnet. |
| Aroma
: |
Red berries, fruitcake, floral notes and perfume balanced with subtle oak. |
| Palate
: |
Rich, concentrated red berry flavours. Vanilla, prune and fruitcake add further personality to this wine made for seafood and lighter meat dishes. Velvety, the finish lingers with loads of spice. A ccessible now, this wine shows legs that require ageing in the bottle. Enjoy this great food wine now through 2010. |
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