Editor's choice: August 2009
Editor's choice
This month Christian Eedes looks at wines from Laibach, Idiom, Rustenberg and Rupert & Rothschild.
INVESTMENT BORDEAUX-STYLE RED BLEND
★ ★ ★ THREE STARS
Laibach The Ladybird Organic 2007
CELLAR PRICE: R80
This wine was made from organically grown grapes, certifi ed by SGS,
the global leader in verifi cation and is named "The Ladybird", because
these are natural enemies of mealybugs, which transmits leafroll
virus. Clean and pure on the palate with fresh acidity and good
tannic grip. CE's score: 17/20.
INVESTMENT BORDEAUX-STYLE RED BLEND
★ ★ ★ THREE STARS
Rustenberg John X Merriman 2006
CELLAR PRICE: R145
The label commemorates John Xavier Merriman (1841 - 1926),
last prime minister of the Cape Colony before the formation of the
Union of South Africa in 1910 and a previous owner of the farm.
Well balanced with succulent fruit and fi rm tannins. Should easily
go until 2016. CE's score: 17/20.
INVESTMENT BORDEAUX-STYLE RED BLEND
★ ★ ★ THREE AND A HALF STARS
Idiom Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot
Cabernet Franc 2006
CELLAR PRICE: R150
According to the back label, this wine consists of 43% Cabernet
Sauvignon, 31% Merlot and 25% Cabernet Franc, which doesn't quite
add up to 100% but no matter. It shows cassis and pencil shavings
on the nose, while the palate is intense but not weighty. Good fruit
expression and fi ne, dry tannins. CE's score: 18/20.
INVESTMENT BORDEAUX-STYLE RED BLEND
★ ★ ★ THREE STARS
Rupert & Rothschild Baron Edmond 2005
CELLAR PRICE: R286
This is a blend of 59.5% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30.5% Merlot and
10% Cabernet Franc. Wine of origin Western Cape including grapes
from the Langeberg. Medium bodied, fresh and elegant. Has an alcohol
by volume of under 14% and that's not something you see that often
anymore. CE's score: 17/20.
