Rustenberg Red 1974

The Red 1974 from Rustenberg is perhaps only slightly less revered than the Cabernet Sauvignon 1982 from this Stellenbosch property and at the recent tasting as part of preparations for the Distell Tabernacle Heritage Sale to be run by auction house Strauss & Co later in the year, it showed magnificently well.

Consisting of two-thirds Cabernet Sauvignon and one-third Cinsault, it was blended at crush and vinified in open concrete fermenters. The nose is hugely complex with notes of red and black berries, some leafiness, dried herbs, meat stock, earth and spice. The palate is full but wonderfully composed – the fruit still present, and this offset by lovely fine tannins. With layers of flavour and great length, it is a wine that combines power with refinement.

CE’s rating: 96/100.

Check out our South African wine ratings database.