2002 Rupert & Rothschild Vignerons Classique
Taste Rupert & Rothschild Vignerons Classique blind and you might swear it’s a young cru bourgeois. But in fact, it’s a Bordeaux blend from South Africa, the result of a collaboration between the Rothschild family of Lafite-Rothschild and the Rupert family of South Africa -- and enologist Michel Rolland, who consults all over the world. The 2002 Classique has an intriguing dry dusty character shot through with herbal notes and a touch of cigar box. Very classique indeed: a wine that shows the potential for Bordeaux-style blends in South Africa. At under $20, it’s a real bargain too.
Quick swirl
Region: South Africa
Price: About $19
Style: Lush
Food it goes with: Roast duck, pork loin and steaks
Where you find it: Fireside Cellars in Santa Monica, (310) 393-2888; Flask in Studio City, (818) 761-5373; Malibu Village Wines in Malibu, (310) 456-2924; Southern Hemisphere
Wine Center in Huntington Beach, (800) 504-9463; Wine House in
West L.A.,
(310) 479-3731
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-- S. Irene Virbila