Roodeberg, the legendary South African wine that celebrates its 70th anniversary this year, has broken the venerable 90 point barrier with three signature blends in the highly respected Tim Atkin 2019 South Africa Special Report.
Top scorer, with 93/100 is the just released Roodeberg 1949, a meticulously crafted, limited edition commemorative blend. Next up on 92 points is Dr Charles Niehaus, the top tier red blend dedicated to Roodeberg’s illustrious founder, followed by the classic Roodeberg Red on 90 points. All three wines are from the 2017 vintage, described by Atkin as one of the greatest vintages from South Africa he has ever tasted.
Atkin, a British Master of Wine and accomplished wine commentator with over 30 years’ experience under his belt, has extensive knowledge when it comes to South African wines. He tasted 2 115 local wines for his 2019 report, now in its seventh year and his largest yet. The wines are rated according to the international 100-point system.
Roodeberg 1949 – 93 points
Ever evolving with a rich heritage spanning 70 years, the name Roodeberg resonates in the hearts and minds of wine lovers the world over. Roodeberg 1949 continues this tradition as a contemporary blend with universal appeal; a wine that is imminently drinkable and accessibly yet complex enough to age beautifully.
Showing excellent structure, supple tannins and fleshy fruit with outstanding purity and balance, the 2017 Roodeberg 1949 embraces the revival of exciting French and Spanish varieties. Cabernet Sauvignon (38%) forms the foundation of the blend, complemented by Tempranillo (29%), Carignan (20%) and Carménère (13%).
“Roodeberg 1949 is a dedicated collaborative effort harnessing some of the finest plant material along with our combined viticultural and winemaking expertise,” says winemaker Louwritz Louw, who worked closely with viticulturist Marco Ventrella and former KWV Cellarmaster and renowned wine educator Charl Theron in seeing this exclusive commemorative 2017 blend come to life.
Dr Charles Niehaus – 92 points
Fruit purity and complexity are the crux of this super-premium Roodeberg that has evolved since its maiden vintage in 2010 into a formidable Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz driven blend. The 2017 vintage is a multi-regional blend dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon (39%) and Shiraz (37%), supported by Malbec (10%), Merlot (7%) and Cabernet Franc (7%). The wine is juicy and concentrated with great depth, showing prominent aromas of blackcurrant and plum with notes of violets, sweet spice and white pepper. It is generous and well-integrated on the palate with a firm tannin structure rewarding with a smooth and lingering finish.
Roodeberg Red – 90 points
This famous red blend erupts in your glass with aromatic layers of red fruit, cassis and pencil shavings enriched by warm tones of tobacco and dark chocolate. The palate is elegant and well-rounded with nuances of cedar oak and dark plums, supported by soft tannins that linger long after the last sip.
Launched in 1949, Roodeberg is a true South African original that has stood the test of time. This signature red is the heart and soul of memorable moments having evolved from the master’s original blend to an accessible, contemporary classic in step with changing times and preferences but still rooted in tradition. Its rich heritage and colourful tapestry of wine folklore is the stuff of legends.