Anthonij Rupert Blend 2018

Produced by Anthonij Rupert Wines in the Franschhoek Valley, the Anthonij Rupert Blend represents the estate's flagship red wine and reflects a commitment to crafting world-class Bordeaux-style blends from carefully selected vineyards across the Western Cape. The estate combines meticulous vineyard management with a philosophy that respects both site and varietal expression. The 2018 vintage was matured for 24 months in French oak barrels, allowing the individual components to develop depth and integration before blending. Cabernet Franc forms the backbone of the wine, contributing aromatic complexity and structure, while Merlot adds richness and texture and Cabernet Sauvignon provides depth and longevity. The result is a wine that balances power with refinement, remaining true to the estate's pursuit of elegance over excess. Colour: Deep garnet with an intense ruby core, showing remarkable concentration and maturity while retaining youthful vibrancy. Nose: Complex aromas of blackcurrant, ripe plum and dark cherry are layered with graphite, cedarwood and cigar box notes. Hints of dried herbs, dark chocolate and subtle spice emerge with time in the glass, revealing the influence of both Cabernet Franc and extended oak maturation. Palate: Full-bodied and structured, with finely woven tannins supporting concentrated flavours of cassis, blackberry and black cherry. The Merlot contributes plushness through the mid-palate, while Cabernet Franc brings freshness, savoury complexity and aromatic lift. Oak is seamlessly integrated, adding notes of cedar, spice and cocoa without overshadowing the fruit. Finish: Long, polished and persistent, with lingering dark fruit, tobacco leaf, graphite and fine spice carrying through to a refined conclusion.