Anthonij Rupert Optima 2021
Anthonij Rupert Optima 2021
Manufacturer: Anthonij Rupert
A blend from Franschhoek and Darling composed of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Malbec. The grapes are sourced from decomposed granite soils and, following careful selection, vinified in a combination of concrete and stainless-steel tanks, with extended maceration to enhance structure and colour. The components were matured separately in French oak barriques, a portion of which was new, before blending and further bottle ageing. On the nose, the wine shows pronounced aromas of black berries and hedgerow fruit, complemented by notes of spice and mocha. The palate is full, rounded, and layered, with flavours of dark fruit, black cherry, and baking spice, accompanied by a subtle graphite nuance. The structure is complex, supported by ripe tannins and well-integrated oak. Harmonious, vibrant, and refined, with a long, smooth finish and very good ageing potential.
2021 / 0.75 l / 14,5% / Franschhoek – South Africa
About the Winery
In 1984, Anthony took over the management of L'Ormarins from his father and restored the farm and the historic cellar (dating from 1799), which were declared national monuments. After that, his son Anthony took over the management of the winery and in 1989 L'Ormarins won all the major local wine competitions. In 2001, Anthony Rupert tragically died and Johann Rupert took over the company. In 2005, Anthonij Rupert builds a cellar.
A state-of-the-art gravity-fed cellar with a revolving ceiling and an underground wine barrel aging cellar, completed in memory of his brother. In the same year, he employs internationally renowned oenologist Michel Rolland as a consultant to the Anthonij Rupert team, resulting in the first vintage of Anthonij Rupert wines released in 2009. Since the first vintage, all wines from this winery have consistently scored 90 points or higher in Wine Spectator magazine's ratings.
Terroir
The Franschhoek Valley, located in the south-eastern corner of Paarl in South Africa's Western Cape, is a vast area interspersed with vineyards and known for its prestigious wine estates. This charming valley has been a centre of wine production since the 17th century and is particularly famous for its Cap Classique sparkling wines, which are made mainly from a blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir varieties.
The valley's winemaking roots date back to the late 16th century, when French Huguenots fleeing their homeland brought their winemaking know-how to South Africa. The name Franschhoek, which means 'French corner' in Dutch, reflects the lingering French influence, which is reflected in the names of the vineyards and the town's architectural style. The surrounding mountains play a key role in mitigating the climate by trapping the cool southerly winds, thus extending the growing season and contributing to the development of complex grape aromas.
Franschhoek enjoys a warm continental climate which is ideal for producing sparkling and rich white wines with a fruity edge. The soil composition is predominantly alluvial sandstone, with granite deposits on the northern mountain slopes.
Recommended wine pairings
Anthonij Rupert Optima 2021