Raats Jasper Red Blend 2022 vs Rustenberg John X Merriman 2022

Raats Family Wines and Rustenberg are two powerhouse Stellenbosch producers, the former choosing to champion Cabernet Franc and the latter famed for its top-end Cabernet Sauvignon under the Peter Barlow label. What do the two offer when it comes to their mid-tier Cape Bordeaux Red Blends? Tasting notes and ratings for the currently available 2022s as follows:

Raats Jasper Red Blend 2022
Price: R325
Named after the father of current owner/winemaker Bruwer Raats.

49% Cabernet Franc, 35% Malbec, 9% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3.5%Merlot and 3.5% Petit Verdot, maturation lasting 16 months in older barrels. Red berries, rose and a hint of herbs on the nose. The palate is light bodied with bright acidity and fine tannins, the finish nicely dry. Understated and approachable.

CE’s rating: 90/100.

Rustenberg John X Merriman 2022
Price: R300
Named after John Xavier Merriman, who bought the Stellenbosch property in 1892 out of sympathy for farmers suffering from the phylloxera crisis.

51% Cabernet Sauvignon, 43% Merlot, 5% Petit Verdot and 1% Malbec, maturation lasting 18 months in barrel, 25% new. The nose shows red and black berries, floral perfume, oystershell and a hint of vanilla. The palate is medium bodied with fresh acidity and fine tannins. Workmanlike – not particularly detailed but well balanced. Alc: 14%.

CE’s rating: 90/100.

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