Description
Arguably the best-value Bordeaux blend from South Africa, produced by Rustenberg. The John X Merriman is a beautiful red that looks and tastes great, matching a BBQ or a smart dinner with ease!
TASTING NOTE: It has a deep red colour in the glass. On the nose: aromas of blackberry from the Cabernet Sauvignon, spice, fresh mint/herbs, and plum fruit from the Merlot. On the palate: It is medium to full-bodied with intense flavour, fresh but not dominant acidity and firm, fine-textured tannins, without being austere, followed by a plush long finish. 14% alcohol by volume.
FOOD PAIRING, STORING AND SERVICE: Try the John X Merriman with grilled or barbecued red meats like lamb or beef, or for a vegetarian match, pair it with some grilled halloumi cheese and roast peppers. The Cabernet Sauvignon will match perfectly with the grilled element and help to highlight the fruity Merlot component of the blend. It is drinking beautifully now or keep until 2027.
ABOUT: The Rustenberg wine estate is based in Stellenbosch, at the foot of the Simonsberg Mountain, in a nature reserve. In the 1940s the Barlow family purchased the estate and have grown production since then. Murray Barlow is now in charge, making a range of excellent wines, largely from French grapes. While South Africa is often considered part of the New World, in terms of vine growing, the vineyards have been established here since all the way back in 1682, beating many traditional French estates for longevity! The 2021 vintage of this wine is a harmonious blend of Cabernet Sauvignon 63%, Merlot 20%, Malbec 11% and Petit Verdot 6%.
See rustenberg.co.za for more information.
