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Rustenberg has a wine-growing history dating back to 1682, when Roelof Pasman from Meurs, near the Rhine, recognized its wine-growing potential. The first record of wine being sold off the property can be found in the form of a receipt for brandy sold to a midwife in 1692.  By 1781, some 3000 cases of wine were produced on the farm. Wine has been bottled at this cellar for an unbroken period since 1892.

In the early 1800's Rustenberg was divided by owner Jacob Eksteen and a section was given to his son-in-law, who named it Schoongezicht. Rustenberg and Schoongezicht were at their peak around 1812, with beautiful homesteads and flourishing vineyards. But by mid-century, recession coupled with disease in the vines, brought bankruptcy and dispossession.

Schoongezicht was rescued in 1892 by John X Merriman (who was to become Prime Minister of the Cape), and Rustenberg by his brother-in-law Sir Jacob Barry. Together they revitalised the farms. In 1941 Peter and Pamela Barlow bought Rustenberg, later acquiring Schoongezicht and reuniting the properties. Their son Simon took over the running of the farm in 1987.

In preparation for our upcoming vertical tasting with the “King of Cabernet”, winemaker Etienne le Riche, we decided to go back into history to taste a wine made by Etienne when he was the winemaker at the iconic Rustenberg Wine Estate.  The Rustenberg Gold 1990, a Bordeaux-style blend made in the year that Etienne was named the John Platter Winemaker of the Year, seemed the perfect choice for this journey into the past.

Cultivar:  Bordeaux Blend (Cabernet Sauvignon / Merlot / Cabernet Franc)

Winemaker:  Etienne le Riche

Ullage:  No apparent ullage.

Cork:  Cork still in great condition for its age, but tip broke when extracted.

Color:  Beautiful brick red color with some sediment visible from the tannin separation due to age.

Bouquet:  Still some wonderful red fruit aromas on the nose with a subtle smokiness and some earthy and coffee bean notes.

Palate:  Shows nice acidity with some fruity notes on the palate.  Tannin not so pronounced anymore yet still has lovely light red fruit flavors of raspberry and pomegranate on the back palate.  Mid-length finish.

Food Pairing:  We would recommend to drink this now with a 36 month aged cheese, or on its own with your best friend.

Score:  90/100

Santé!

Germain