Rustenberg Rustenberg John X. Merriman 2021 750ml

The 2021 John X Merriman is a blend of 63% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot and 11% Malbec with 6% Petit Verdot (the Cabernet Franc has been pulled out) from the estate only. It is aged for 20 months in barrel using one-third new oak. The intense nose offers plush blackberry and boysenberry fruit, quite lush and heady, though it manages to maintain delineation. The palate is medium-bodied with pliant tannins. I appreciate the harmony and judicious soupçon of cracked black pepper mixed with graphite, enlivening the finish. Very assured and very delicious. Though it will be approachable young, it will age with style. (Neal Martin)

This 2021 John X Merriman is a blend of 63% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot, 11% Malbec and 6% Petit Verdot. On the nose, it offers an open bouquet with prominent aromas of plump dark cherries and a hint of lead pencil. Subtle touches of oak and baking spices add complexity, along with dusty floral undertones. The wine is medium to full-bodied, with a structured, tannic edge that suggests it will age well over time. It’s equally enjoyable now and will pair excellently with food. The wine aged in French oak barrels, one-third new, for 20 months. A total of 162,000 bottles were produced. (Anthony Mueller)