The Rustenberg John X Merriman 2015 is a powerful and age-worthy Stellenbosch Bordeaux-style blend, produced in what is widely regarded as one of the Cape’s standout vintages. Sourced from the slopes of the Simonsberg, this wine reflects both the intensity of the vintage and Rustenberg’s long-standing reputation for structured, cellar-worthy reds.
In its youth, the wine shows bold aromatics of cassis, blackcurrant, and dark berry fruit, layered with notes of cigar tobacco, sour cherry, and subtle spice. On the palate, it is rich and structured, with concentrated fruit supported by fine-grained tannins and balanced acidity. With time in the glass — or further cellaring — the wine evolves into a more savory, complex expression, revealing tertiary notes and a softer, more integrated texture while retaining its depth and presence.
This is a classic, food-driven red that pairs beautifully with roast beef, lamb, game, and richly flavored dishes.
In its youth, the wine shows bold aromatics of cassis, blackcurrant, and dark berry fruit, layered with notes of cigar tobacco, sour cherry, and subtle spice. On the palate, it is rich and structured, with concentrated fruit supported by fine-grained tannins and balanced acidity. With time in the glass — or further cellaring — the wine evolves into a more savory, complex expression, revealing tertiary notes and a softer, more integrated texture while retaining its depth and presence.
This is a classic, food-driven red that pairs beautifully with roast beef, lamb, game, and richly flavored dishes.
Following a cool, wet winter and reduced yields, the 2015 vintage delivered small berries with excellent concentration and natural acidity. The grapes were harvested early under warm, dry conditions, ensuring optimal ripeness and purity of fruit. Each component was fermented separately in temperature-controlled tanks, with careful extraction through pump-overs and punch-downs.
After fermentation, the wine underwent malolactic fermentation before being matured in French oak barrels, allowing the tannins to soften and integrate while building complexity. The final blend was assembled from the best parcels to achieve balance, structure, and long-term aging potential.
Winemaker: Randolph Christians
After fermentation, the wine underwent malolactic fermentation before being matured in French oak barrels, allowing the tannins to soften and integrate while building complexity. The final blend was assembled from the best parcels to achieve balance, structure, and long-term aging potential.
Winemaker: Randolph Christians
Founded in 1682 and nestled in the valley of the Simonsberg in South Africa’s premium wine region, Stellenbosch. Rustenberg’s rich heritage and ethos has been informed by many centuries of human influence striving to understand and work with nature to produce wines of distinct character true to their terrior, variety and informed style.
