Characteristics:
Aromas of red plum, raspberries and cherries are prominent, layered with forest floor and oak spice expressed as toasted caramel and walnut. The palate has a fresh red fruit core with soft-textured tannins and good persistence. Handpicked grapes, fermented in stainless steel with extended skin contact. 16 months on French oak of 225L. 51% Merlot, 34% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Cabernet Franc and 6% Petit Verdot. Ageing potential of at least 7 years from vintage.
Food pairing:
Combine with excellent red meat, eg fillet or chateaubriand, or with a coq au vin, ossobucco or lamb casseroles. Can be served with hard cheeses. The winemaker advises Springbok loin or braised Springbok shoulder with aromatic potato pudding with a gastrique of port sherry and puffed barley.
About the winery:
Rupert & Rothschild Vignerons is a joint venture between the Rupert family of South Africa and Baron Benjamin de Rothschild of Château Clarcke from France. The common base is the historic estate Fredericksburg, situated between Franschhoek and Paarl. Talented cellarmaster Yvonne Lester, the constant link between vineyard and wine cellar, strains after modern fruit and a classic texture.
