Classique

"The 2012 Classique is a blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Merlot. It has a crisp and lively bouquet with raspberry, wild strawberry and dried herbs. The palate is well balanced with ripe black fruit infused with bay leaf, white pepper and tobacco, demonstrating fine weight and precision from start to finish. This is an excellent South African Bordeaux blend."

92
Neal Martin, The Wine Advocate


"There are nine varieties here, but Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot are the dominant grapes. For a one million bottle release, it's hugely impressive and consistently so. Aromatic and refreshing, with focused acidity and flavours of cassis, red cherry and refined tannins."

92
Tim Atkin, MW
  • Analysis
  • Vineyards
  • Vinification and Aging
  • Tasting Notes
  • 2012 Vintage Notes

2012 Rupert & Rothschild Vignerons “Classique”

Wine of Origin

Western Cape

Varietals

55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 29% Merlot, 8% Shiraz, 5% Cabernet Franc, 2% Petite Verdot, 1% Pinotage

Analysis

Wine Maker: Yvonne Lester

Alcohol: 13.5% vol

Total Acidity: 6.1 g/l

pH: 3.57

Residual Sugar: 2.5 g/l

At the foot of the spectacular Simonsberg mountain in the Franschhoek Valley lies the historic French Huguenot farm Fredericksburg, established in 1690 and now home to Rupert & Rothschild Vignerons. It was in this valley over 300 years ago that the early French Huguenots first discovered a terroir similar to that of certain winegrowing regions in France. Hence their decision to settle and cultivate vineyards here. The average age of the vines is between 11 and 21 years old, and drip irrigation is utilized to maintain the vineyards.

Fermented in stainless steel tanks with extended skin contact. Malolactic fermentation occurred in French oak barrels. Matured for 17 months in 225 liter and 300 liter French oak barrels. The wine has an endless aging potential.

The wine opens with inviting black raspberry and ripe strawberry aromas, supported by an earthy “old world” elegance, and a strong mineral focus. A lingering cinnamon and walnut undertone give the wine a sense of softness on the finish. Decanting is recommended.

The 2012 growing season began with the third straight year of noticeably dry conditions, following a winter with lower-than-usual rain levels. That, combined with a cool start to spring, resulted in reduced fruit set. Many producers noted markedly reduced crop yields, but more concentrated fruit.