Anthonij Rupert 'Optima' Franschhoek 2020

Description

The South African businessman Dr Anthon Rupert bought L'Ormarins and La Motte wineries in 1970. His youngest son Anthonij died in a car crash in 2001, and this new estate and brand was named after him. Since 2003 it has been run by his brother Johann Rupert. Anthonij Rupert are based on the historic L'Ormarins farm in Franschhoek, but have vineyards throughout the Western Cape.

Optima is their top wine, a blend of wine made from Ormarins and their Rooderust farm in Darling (near the coast).

This has a medium ruby colour. On the nose this is a more traditional style with spice and red and black berry fruits and plums, zedarwood, cloves and nutmeg, there is mint and lifted herbs and a pleasant wet earthiness and white pepper. The palate is succulent and packed with black cherry, blueberry and plum. Adding to its complexity is a notable violet hint and inky depth. Tannins are medium intense, roundly polished and ripe. Fruit on the palate is ripe with some cherry and raspberry liqueur to it. I can see this match very well with richer meat dishes, but also with anything that involves root vegetables and mushrooms.