Rustenberg Cabernet Sauvignon 1986

In the August 1994 edition of Wine magazine, a report written by John Platter appears on a vertical tasting of 21 vintages of Rustenberg Cabernet Sauvignon, spanning 1970 to 1992 (no 1977 made due to rain and no 1978 as the farm did not have library stock).

There were ten panelists involved and top wine overall was the 1984 with an average score of 18.2 scored out of 20, the 1982 in second place with a score of 17.7. The 1986, meanwhile, came in at 13^th place with an average score of 15.7.

Regarding winemaking, the 1986 was matured for 18 months in new Nevers barrels followed by a year in large Limousin (1984 being the first vintage that the farm moved away from maturation in 3 000-litre vats).

Drinking it now, the nose shows cranberry, raspberry and mushroom while the palate is medium bodied with fresh acidity and tannins now completely resolved. Round, mellow and none too earthy or malty. Not necessarily complex but beautifully balanced and full of charm. Alc: 12.3%.

CE’s rating: 92/100.

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