A FILLLLTHY WTN: Rust En Vrede Estate 2003 Stellenbosch

I thought I'd check in an old favorite. A few vintages ago, Rust En Vrede Estate proved to me that South African wines were the real deal. It was quite a surprise, as new world wines are often a major disappointment. There is no doubt that the 2003 has loads of fruit. Its sooo damned balanced though, with filthy, bretty tobacco and tar. Drinking it is like licking a blackberry pie off of a hot interstate highway. Cassis, blackberry, chocolate, mint and herbs with plenty of sandpaper tannins. I often think of South African reds as the stylistic no-mans land between Bordeaux and the new world. Rust En Vrede is why. 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Shiraz, 10% Merlot. 14,5%vol. $50




Prost!
Bill

like licking a blackberry pie off of a hot interstate highway.

To think that after living in the desert for 30+ years I still haven't gotten around to doing that!

like licking a blackberry pie off of a hot interstate highway.

To think that after living in the desert for 30+ years I still haven't gotten around to doing that!

Doug,

Clearly it's about time....

[Jenise]

I often think of South African reds as the stylistic no-mans land between Bordeaux and the new world.

Ditto. And they're pretty recognizable for same in blind tastings. A wine that's not quite French, but definitely not California or Australia? Probably an Afrikaaner.