# Rust en Vrede Estate 2020 (2020)

- **Producer:** Rust en Vrede Estate
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Merlot
- **Region:** Western Cape, South Africa
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.0%
- **Average price:** €42
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 14–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** black cherry, raspberry, eucalyptus, blackcurrant, black pepper, red plum, red cherry, black plum, blackberry, cedar, cloves, coffee, chocolate, vanilla, forest floor, tobacco, earth, leather

## About this wine

The Rust en Vrede Estate 2020 is a red blend from Stellenbosch, South Africa, produced by Rust en Vrede Estate. The blend is composed primarily of Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and Merlot, with proportions reflecting the estate's vineyard plantings. This wine is considered the emblematic offering of Rust en Vrede, a producer with a long history dating back to 1694 and a specialization in red wines since 1977. Proprietor Jean Engelbrecht focuses on creating full-bodied, complex wines that express the Helderberg terroir. The wine has received significant international recognition, including multiple selections by Wine Spectator for its Top 100 list. The 2020 vintage benefited from cool, dry ripening conditions, contributing to the wine's structure.

## Interesting facts

- Selected four times for Wine Spectator's Top 100 list.
- Estate has a history dating back to 1694.
- Exclusively produces red wines.
- Vineyards are north-facing on Tukulu soil.

## Food pairing

The wine's full body and firm tannins are well-suited to complement the richness of red meats and game, breaking down proteins and cleansing the palate. The fruit notes in the wine can echo or contrast with elements in the dish, while oak influences can harmonize with roasted or grilled flavors.

## Wine making process

The Rust en Vrede Estate 2020 is produced from estate-grown grapes in Stellenbosch. The winemaking process involves hand-picking and sorting of the fruit, followed by separate vinification for each grape variety, vineyard parcel, and clone. Grapes are destemmed and crushed, then undergo a 21-day maceration period with a 7-day fermentation, utilizing pump-overs and manual punch-downs. Following fermentation, the wine is aged in 100% French oak barrels for 18 to 22 months, with a varied proportion of new and used barrels. The 2020 vintage experienced cool and dry ripening conditions, contributing to the development of ripe tannins.