Merlot 2015 Rust En Vrede, Stellenbosch, South Africa

Established in 1694, Rust en Vrede is part of a remarkable three hundred year old wine tradition. Since 1977 the Engelbrecht family has specialised in the exclusive production of red wine, with the focus on Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Proprietor Jean Engelbrecht has worked to establish Rust en Vrede as one of South Africa’s premium red wine estates, with full-bodied and complex wines that reflect the uniqueness of the outstanding Stellenbosch wine region terroir. This wine is 100% estate grown Merlot in their north-facing vineyards. The wine is aged 14 months in 100% French oak with medium toast. Vinous scored this 90 points saying "Good medium red-ruby. Dark berries, tobacco leaf, chocolate and cedary oak on the nose, plus a suggestion of woodsmoke. At once supple and firm on the palate, with lovely energy and vinosity to its intense currant, spice and herb flavors. With its complex herbal notes and firm spine of dusty tannins, I might have picked this as Cabernet Sauvignon--or at least a Bordeaux blend. Already shows enticing sweetness but lay this baby down for at least a couple years." and its got 95 points on Cellar Tracker. Don't miss it!