Rustenberg has been a must-visit on any trip to the Cape since the late seventeenth century, yet while they hold their tradition and heritage close to their heart, they aren`t afraid to exploit the best of the modern in viticulture and cellar practice. They run their own nursery to avoid the common problem of commercial nursery`s selling you the wrong vines; everything is hand-harvested; and over the years site selection for each vine variety has been rigorously researched and fine-tuned. Natural yeasts are used and viticulture is responsible and sustainable, with chemicals deployed only when absolutely necessary. The replanting of the vines over a period of years has ensured some of the healthiest vines in South Africa and the wines produced are oozing with class. The John X certainly brings to mind the best of the Haut-Medoc, while the Chardonnay`s intense and focussed fruit combined with a subtle oak regime is a wine of pleasure now that will age with distinction if allowed. Winemaker Randolph Christians is at the top of his game.