2009 Rust En Vrede Cabernet Sauvignon

My local wine retailer in Tampa, Florida occasionally scores some amazing deals from their distributors and passes the savings onto their customers. One recent deal was the 2009 Rust En Vrede Cabernet Sauvignon, which was offered at an amazing price of $10.99.

I had visited this vineyard back in 2005 and was extremely impressed with their portfolio of new world red wines, so I bought two bottles, thinking unless it's cooked how bad can it be?

Not bad at all. In fact, quite exceptional for this bargain price point. I consumed both bottles over two weeks, pairing them with grilled lamb sliders and beef ribeye. In both I noted loam and dark fruit on the nose and the scent of the Stellenbosch cellar it came from. The palate was mouth coating, a bit jammy, with discernable but balanced oak. And the finish long, with hints of fig and vanilla.

Wine Spectator gave this wine a rating of 92/100. Drink Now or Hold. I concur. Don't expect to get it at this price, however, as I have bought out the stock in Tampa, FL but you can find it on-line from US $27-29. Very good at that price point too.