World Wine 2002 Rustenberg John X Merriman Red

Stellenbosch, South Africa Rustenberg is one of South Africa s jewels, dating back to 1682. The estate has been owned by the Barlow family since 1941. This wine, Rustenberg John X Merriman, is a red Bordeaux blend of 52% Cabernet Sauvignon, 46% Merlot and 2% Cabernet Franc. All the grapes at Rustenberg are hand-harvested in the early morning and vinified in separate vineyard blocks before blending for added complexity. We challenge Bordeaux drinkers to find a Bordeaux of this wine s quality at this price! Wine Spectator rated the 2001 vintage 91 points, and this one was just released. Rustenberg John X Merriman Red is deep ruby red in color with aromas and flavors of rich black cherries, sweet plums, cassis, blackberries, vanilla and spice. Medium-full in body with satiny tannins, the wine was aged in French oak barriques, 50% new, for 20 months. Nicely balanced to enjoy now and over the next 10-15 years, it is long and elegant on the finish. Enjoy Rustenberg John X Merriman Red with roast beef, gr