Rupert & Rothschild "Classique" Red '18

A partnership formed in South Africa in 1997 between Anthony Rupert of South Africa and Baron Benjamin de Rothschild of France, Rupert & Rothschild makes just three wines (one white and two reds). “Classique,” the flagship bottling, hits its mark: a Bordeaux-inspired everyday red blend with a classic character that’ll please those looking for a bold wine with a rich fruit character.

The winery is located in the Western Cape, and the vines benefit from the Atlantic-influenced climate, which allows for an extended growing season, with warm daytime temperatures and cooler nights. The 2018 is composed of six varieties; dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, it also includes a small amount of Cabernet Franc as well as Petit Verdot, Shiraz, and Pinotage (about 8% combined for the last three varieties). It’s essentially a Bordeaux blend but with tiny percentages of two varieties that break the formula, Shiraz and Pinotage, both of which deepen the dark, smoky, savory character of the wine.

The 2018 “Classique” was fermented in stainless steel and concrete tanks, and aged for 16 months in small French barrels. The nose offers ripe notes of black plum, black cherry, and cassis, along with cedar, brown baking spices, and mocha. The fruit is drier on the palate and gives way to supple tannins, making the wine an ideal pairing for roasted red meats and lean, gamey meats. Open it an hour or two before serving and decant it if you can (any clean glass vessel will do). The fruit and savory notes will be more expressive, and you won’t regret the extra step.