Alto Estate Rouge

Wine information: Alto, situated on the slopes of the Helderberg Mountain in the Stellenbosch district, dates back to 1693 when it was part of a much larger farm called Groenrivier (Green River), granted to a free burgher by Governor Simon van der Stel. In 1919 the owner of the farm, Hennie Malan, sold off half the land to his brother-in-law and set about planting vines on his remaining portion, focusing exclusively on red varieties. He named the smaller farm Alto, a reference to its altitude (some slopes rise as high as 500m above sea level) and his striving for excellence. Alto has 93 hectares under vines. The trellised vineyards cling to the high granite slopes that are ideal for the cultivation of red wine varieties. For almost 70 years Alto Estate, which became famous as Alto Rouge, is still regarded as the aristocrat of the Cape red wines. A blend of 45% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Cabernet Franc and 15% Shiraz. It is a dark ruby colour. The nose has powerful berry fruit aromas with cigar box and dark chocolate followed by vanilla and oak spices. Full-bodied with appealing blackberry flavours followed by tobacco, chocolate, toast and vanilla and a good tannic structure adding complexity and long maturation potential. The winemaker recommends serving it with simply flavoured red meat, game and duck or just enjoy all on its own.

 
     

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