Anthonij Rupert Optima

L’Ormarins, originally renowned for its champion South African brandy and white wine, entered a new chapter in 1968 when it came under Rupert family stewardship. In 1984, Anthonij Rupert took the reins from his father, Anton, and initiated major renovations that culminated in winning every key local wine competition by 1989. After Anthonij’s untimely passing in 2003, his brother Johann Rupert stepped in, rebranding the estate to Anthonij Rupert in honour of his late sibling. This shift marked a new era of innovation, with substantial investment in modernising the winery, enhancing cellar operations, and bringing aboard esteemed oenologist Michel Rolland. Under Johann’s leadership, Anthonij Rupert Wines has amassed global recognition, awards, and acclaim for its commitment to excellence.

The Optima blend is a shining example of this dedication. Grown at the L’Ormarins estate in Franschhoek and Rooderlust Farm in Darling, the grapes for Optima are sourced from diverse vineyard sites, each selected for their unique terroir. The decomposed granite, alluvial sand, clay, and “Greywacke” sandstone in Franschhoek, combined with significant rainfall variations and the influence of the Groot Drakenstein and Franschhoek mountains, provide ideal growing conditions. The vineyards benefit from both the cooling Benguela current and the warm Mozambique current, crafting wines with remarkable character and complexity.

Optima is a Bordeaux-style blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot. The grapes are meticulously hand-picked and hand-sorted, vinified and aged separately before blending. After blending, the wine undergoes further barrel and tank ageing, followed by a 24-month bottle maturation, resulting in a wine that’s a true labour of love.

On the palate, Optima delivers ripe plum and forest fruits intertwined with layers of sweet tobacco, cedar, cocoa, and a touch of spice. A fruity acidity keeps the wine fresh and vibrant, with a long, balanced finish that hints at balsamic blueberries. Some wine critics even note a touch of Christmas pudding – so if that’s your style, Optima has got you covered.