2021 Rustenberg John X Merriman

92 POINTS

Neal Martin - Vinous

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.

92 POINTS

Decanter World Wine Awards

Plush and perfumed nose of violets, blueberries, bramble, chocolate, min and vanilla. Polished on the palate, harmonious and promising.

92 POINTS

Anthony Mueller - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

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.

91 POINTS

James Suckling

A comforting nose of ripe cherries, cassis, cigar box and tobacco leaves. Medium body with creamy tannins and texture. Rich and well-rounded with a dense core of sweet cherries and berries and a flavorful finish. Cabernet sauvignon, merlot, malbec and petit verdot. Drink or hold.