Rupert & Rothschild - Classique2021

RED WINE

Wine Advocate 91

Following in the Bordeaux tradition that sees a first wine and a second wine, the Rupert & Rothschild Vignerons 2021 Classique is the proverbial second wine, or in other words, the more affordable choice. The Classique has grown into a brand of its own, especially in the trendy restaurants and wine taverns of South Africa. The blend is 40% Merlot, 35% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Cabernet Franc, 11% Petit Bordeaux and 1% Malbec, with most of the fruit from Stellenbosch. Merlot is the main building block, and indeed, you get plenty of black cherry and varietal softness. The wine ages in all French oak for 12 months with 20% new oak. With time in the glass, it reveals a sanguine or ferrous quality that adds extra focus to the bouquet. The Classique is the heartbeat of this prestigious estate. This wine makes up 70% of total production, with the remaining 30% divided between the Baroness Nadine Chardonnay and the Baron Edmond.

by ML, Wine Advocate , 2025