Rustenberg Fortified Old Vine Muscat of Alexandria 2021

To stand atop Rustenberg on the slopes of the Simonsberg in Stellenbosch is wondrous. This property has been owned by the Barlow family since 1941 and measures 880ha in total – immediately below are 130ha of vineyard plus pasture for beef cattle and show gardens but the views stretch west to Table Mountain and north to the Swartland.

Newest to the wine range, however, is a wine that comes not from Stellenbosch but rather Calitzdorp. Grapes come from a 1932 vineyard that was on the verge of being pulled out to make way for a peach orchard, but was saved in the nick of time and is now certified with the Old Vine Project.

Winemaking involved 36 hours of skin contact before pressing and fortification with neutral grape spirit. The aromatics are quite beautiful with notes of jasmine, pear, peach, melon and spice while the palate shows pure fruit, zippy acidity and gently grippy finish thanks to that skin contact. Destined to provide great drinking for decades to come. Price: R130 per 375ml bottle.

CE’s rating: 93/100.

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