2007 Rubicon, Meerlust, Stellenbosch

A classic of South African fine wines, the Rubicon from Meerlust almost needs no introduction. A Bordeaux blend made from low-yielding fruit, this is a powerful wine that has the ability to age for many years. On the nose, this has notes of dark Cabernet-cassis fruit, store-cupboard spice and a hint of wood smoke. These characters are reflected on the palate, where they are framed by ripe-but-robust tannins. The fruit character has a new world ripeness and concentration, but the structure and freshness give this wine a real sense of old-world classicism.