Alto La Residence Heritage Blend 2022

The soon-to-be released 2022 vintage of Alto Rouge marks the 100^th anniversary of this wine and the Stellenbosch property, owned by German businessman Baron Hans von Staff-Reitzenstein since 2020, is celebrating accordingly.

Recently a flight of Rouge, including 1974, 1987, 1991, 1993 and 2002 followed by a flight of Cabernet Sauvignon including 1965, 1976, 1987, 1998 and 2000.

Stand-out wines as follows:

Alto Rouge 1974
No official record of the blend but thought to contain Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Cinsault and Tinta Barocca. Elusive aromatics included macerated strawberry, prune, floral perfume, fynbos, caramel, meat stock and leather. Light yet full of frequently changing detail, bright acidity and mellow tannins.

CE’s rating: 91/100.

Alto Cabernet Sauvignon 1965
Maiden vintage. Still pitch black in colour. Dark berries, liquorice, earth and tar on the nose. The palate shows tremendous depth, smooth tannins and a savoury finish. Upright to the point of monolithic – amazingly well preserved. Wowed many of the others in attendance.

CE’s rating: 91/100.

Alto Cabernet Sauvignon 1976
Dark red, pale rim. Red berries, iodine and potpourri. Medium bodied with the fruit still intact, fresh acidity and fine tannins. Pure and elegant.

CE’s rating: 93/100.

A new wine, commissioned by the owner, as a once-off is La Residence Heritage Blend 2022, only available in magnum from the tasting room, total production amounting to 1,000 bottles and priced at R1,650. Consisting of 40% Cinsault from sister property Stellenzicht plus 40% Cabernet Sauvignon and 20% Shiraz, the nose shows cherries, plums and cassis, some leafiness, a hint of violets and pencil shavings while the palate is medium bodied and harmonious with fresh acidity and fine, powdery tannins. Great focus.

CE’s rating: 94/100.

Alto Rouge 2022 rated 90 points in this year’s Prescient Signature Red Blend Report – see here.

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