Rustenberg, John X Merriman, Stellenbosch, 2012

Named for Rustenberg's former owner, this Bordeaux blend (49% Cabernet Sauvignon, 38% Merlot plus Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Malbec) is aged for 20 months in a mix of new and old oak barriques. The firm tannins will soften in time to integrate with the rich cassis, tobacco and savoury-spicy notes.