Alto Rouge

Beautiful dark fruit with blackcurrant. The palate is muscular with streamlined, supple tannins and a lengthy finish. Excellent drinkabilityand aging potential.

R133,00

Alcohol
14.5%

Region
Stellenbosch, South Africa

Variety
30% Cabernet franc, 26% Cabernet Sauvignon, 21% Shiraz, 12% Petit Verdot and 11% Merlot

More Information - Alto Rouge

Colour: Bright, rich red. Bouquet: Cedar and pine needles dominate the nose with a touch of freshly crushed raspberries. Taste: Beautiful dark fruit with blackcurrant and hints of dried fennel. The palate is muscular with streamlined, supple tannins and a lengthy finish. Excellent drinkability and aging potential

Back Story & 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 farm Alto, a reference to its altitude (some slopes rise as high as 500m above sea level) and his striving for excellence. The cellar was built in 1920. Alto has 93 hectares under vines. The trellised vineyards cling to the high granite slopes, ideal for the cultivation of red wine varieties. Harvesting at Alto traditionally only starts at the end of February / beginning March due to the cooling influence of the southerly breezes during this time. This ensures gradual ripening of the grapes and contributes to the development of delicate flavour in the fruit.