Rustenberg Shiraz is a premium red wine produced in the Stellenbosch region of South Africa. Made from grapes grown on the estate's vineyards, this wine boasts a deep, ruby color and a complex bouquet of red and dark fruit; blackberry, raspberry and plums. On the palate, this wine is well-structured, with firm tannins and a good balance of acidity. The oak aging process contributes to its smoky, spicy flavor and a long, lingering finish. A versatile wine, Rustenberg Shiraz pairs perfectly with hearty meat dishes and rich cheeses. Perfect for those special occasions, this wine is a must-have for any wine enthusiast.

Tasting Notes

This Shiraz has plenty of natural brambly red and black fruit on the well-defined nose. The palate is medium-bodied with a fine line of acidity, crisp tannins and expressive red berry fruit mixed with spice and cloves on the finish.

About the Winery

The history of Rustenberg dates back to 1682. At that time, Roelof Pasman of Meurs recognised the potential of grapevine cultivation and wine production the place held. By 1781, he saw to it that about 3000 wine cases got created at the farm. The rate doubled as the century progressed towards its end. It compelled the winery to build a cellar. The produced wines have been bottled here for a continuous period ever since 1892.

The estate of Rustenberg got divided by Jacob Eksteen, the owner in the early years of the 1800s. He assigned a section of it to his son-in-law. The separated half got sold under the name of Schoongezicht, and both wineries reached their peak at around 1812. They housed flourishing vineyards and ecstatic homesteads. However, the recession and diseases plaguing the land during the mid-century brought dispossession and bankruptcy to Schoongezicht and Rustenberg.

John X Merriman and Sir Jacob Barry, his brother-in-law, rescued Schoongezicht and Rustenberg, respectively, in 1892. They put their efforts together to revitalise the lands. In 1941, Pamela and Peter Barlow purchased Rustenberg and later Schoongezicht. It led to the two sections of the property reuniting. Simon, their son, took over the estate’s management in 1987. In 2012, Murray, Simon’s son, joined in. Now, for more than 75 years, the Barlows have been in charge of Rustenberg.

The vineyards owned by Rustenberg sit atop Simonsberg’s red slopes. They enjoy the perfect climatic and environmental conditions required for the optimal growth and development of the grapevines. The workers here work exceedingly hard to rejuvenate the land and cultivate virus-free plants from France. Rustenberg ensures excellence and quality in both their grapes and the wines produced from them from the first drop to the last one with the help of a skilled and dedicated team.

http://www.rustenberg.co.za

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