Frequently Asked Questions
Indulge in the rich legacy of Stellenbosch with the Rust en Vrede Cabernet Sauvignon Estate Vineyards. Crafted exclusively from hand-harvested Cabernet Sauvignon grapes grown on 22 hectares of the estate's perfectly situated north-facing slopes, this wine epitomizes the artistry of South African winemaking. Aged for 18 months in French oak barrels (20% new), it boasts an intense bouquet of black currant, black cherry, and plum, complemented by savory undertones of cedar, tobacco, and nutmeg. On the palate, it delivers a harmonious balance of fine-grained tannins and vibrant acidity, finishing with classic notes of cassis and a touch of graphite. Perfectly structured and age-worthy, this is a timeless expression of Stellenbosch terroir, ideal for collectors and connoisseurs alike.
Process & Profile
The Rust En Vrede Cabernet Sauvignon Estate Vineyards exemplifies excellence in winemaking, with roots deeply embedded in the acclaimed Stellenbosch terroir of South Africa. This wine is crafted exclusively from estate-grown grapes, cultivated in Tukulu soil with granite and sandstone origins, well-known for its water retention and optimal drainage. The Mediterranean climate of the Helderberg area, coupled with a meticulous 21-day maceration period and aging in 100% French oak barrels for 18 months, results in a wine of remarkable structure and complexity. The 2020 vintage perfectly showcases these careful processes, balancing ripe tannins with fresh acidity, typical of an exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon.Tasting Notes
This bold and full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon invites you with a deep ruby hue and an expressive aroma of blackcurrant, black cherry, and sandalwood. On the palate, it bursts with flavors of cassis, dark chocolate, and mulberries, complemented by savory notes of tobacco, nutmeg, and cedar. Fine-grained tannins and fresh acidity create a harmonious structure, while layers of bramble fruit and spice lead to a persistent, elegant finish. Its complexity and intensity make it a quintessential example of Stellenbosch winemaking at its finest.What Makes It Special
Rust En Vrede's Cabernet Sauvignon is more than just a wine; it is a testament to the region's rich winemaking heritage. Established in 1694, the estate has a 300-year-old legacy of excellence. The Engelbrecht family's focus on red wine, especially Cabernet Sauvignon, has elevated Rust En Vrede to global acclaim. Notably, this wine is a true reflection of its terroir, with eight distinct clones of Cabernet Sauvignon cultivated on the estate. Its accolades, including being served at the Nobel Peace Prize dinner in 1993, underline its prestige and quality.How to Enjoy
To fully appreciate its intricate flavors, decant the Rust En Vrede Cabernet Sauvignon for at least 30 minutes before serving. Its robust profile pairs wonderfully with hearty dishes, such as grilled ribeye steak, lamb chops, or aged cheeses like Gouda and cheddar. Serve at a temperature of 16-18°C (60-65°F) to unlock its full aromatic potential. While enjoyable now, this wine's aging potential promises even greater complexity over the next decade, making it an excellent choice for collectors and connoisseurs alike.Conclusion
The Rust En Vrede Cabernet Sauvignon Estate Vineyards stands out as a jewel of Stellenbosch winemaking, offering an exquisite expression of terroir and craftsmanship. Whether savored now or cellared for future enjoyment, this wine is a celebration of elegance and tradition.Frequently Asked Questions
What grape variety is used in Rust en Vrede Cabernet Sauvignon Estate Vineyards?
The Rust en Vrede Cabernet Sauvignon is crafted from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon grapes grown on the estate's 22 hectares of vineyards in Stellenbosch, South Africa.
What are the key tasting notes of this wine?
Rust en Vrede Cabernet Sauvignon offers a complex nose featuring black currant, dark chocolate, tobacco, cedar, nutmeg, and pencil shavings. The palate is elegantly balanced with rich flavors of black currant, black cherry, fresh plum, and mulberry, complemented by savory cedar and tobacco, ending with a fresh, persistent finish of cassis and cedar.
How is this wine aged?
This Cabernet Sauvignon is aged for 18 months in 100% French oak barrels, with 20% of the barrels being new oak. This aging process contributes to the wine's complexity and distinctive characteristics.
What makes Rust en Vrede Cabernet Sauvignon unique?
Rust en Vrede specializes in full-bodied red wines, particularly Cabernet Sauvignon, thanks to its location in a warmer microclimate in the Helderberg area of Stellenbosch. The north-facing slopes provide excellent sun exposure, helping produce concentrated and powerful wines with great structure and aging potential.
What foods pair well with Rust en Vrede Cabernet Sauvignon?
This wine pairs beautifully with hearty dishes such as grilled steaks, beef stews, lamb roasts, and rich cheeses. Its bold flavors and firm tannins complement robust and savory foods exceptionally well.
Can Rust en Vrede Cabernet Sauvignon be aged?
Yes, the wine has excellent aging potential due to its high tannin content and complexity. Properly stored bottles can continue to develop for 7 to 10 years or even longer.
Is Rust en Vrede Cabernet Sauvignon a dry wine?
Yes, this wine is dry, as typical for Cabernet Sauvignon, offering minimal residual sugar and a robust, structured profile.
How should this wine be served?
For optimal enjoyment, decant the wine and allow it to breathe for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps soften the tannins and enhances the wine's aroma and flavors. Serve it at a temperature of approximately 16–18°C (60–65°F).
What is the alcohol content of Rust en Vrede Cabernet Sauvignon?
This wine typically has an alcohol by volume (ABV) of around 13.5% to 15%, consistent with most full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignons.
Where is Rust en Vrede Wine Estate located?
The estate is situated in the Stellenbosch wine region of South Africa, nestled at the lower slopes of the Helderberg Mountain. It is known for its rich history, dating back to 1694, and its focus on creating exceptional red wines.
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