Anthonij Rupert Wyne was founded on the farm, L`Ormarins in Franschhoek. Originally owned by the late Anthonij Rupert, who passed away in 2001, the farm was eventually taken over by his brother Johann Rupert in 2003 and the brand named after him. It was Johann Rupert who constructed a state-of-the-art winemaking facility, catapulting the farm into a prestigious wine estate and the beginnings of what is now a sprawling enterprise.
The focus is on terroir specific wines and therefore it would seem obvious that the brand is made up of an impressive portfolio of farms representing the best in grape producing locations. Each site offers optimum varietal specific growing conditions, allowing Anthonij Rupert Wyne to adhere to the requirements of their different brands.
The carefully selected grapes for Anthonij Rupert Optima, come from our L’Ormarins Estate in Franschhoek and Rooderust farm in Darling. Specific sites, each with their own unique soil type and climatic conditions, were identified for the ideal characteristics, which form unique components of the final blend in Optima. A blend of 37% Merlot, 35% Cabernet Sauvignon, 28% Cabernet Franc. The wines were made and aged separately for 20 months in 225L French oak barrels (30% new oak) before being blended and bottled.
The Optima has an instant seduction of violet, blackberry, cherry, cocoa, spice and fruitcake perfume. Black Forest gateau in one whiff. Those same ripe and rich flavours are found on the palate which is soft, rounded, plush and embracing – but with a dry tail. Supple, textured and elegant it offers up concentration, structure as well as a velvety appeal. Layered, nuanced, cohesive and rewarding.
Will age beautifully and benefits from decanting.
