The wine opens with an inviting burst of ripe stone and citrus fruit: succulent tangerine zest and segments mingle with juicy peach, sun-ripened apricot and a fleshy slice of melon. Subtle floral undertones and honeysuckle add lift, while a faint touch of toasted almond and wet stone from the Tulbagh terroir gives classic Rijk’s depth and complexity.
The palate is long, full and creamy, with wonderful texture and weight. Layers of yellow peach, apricot and honeydew melon coat the mouth, supported by a creamy, almost leesy richness that speaks of partial barrel fermentation and judicious oak. Bright, mouth-watering acidity cuts through the generosity, keeping everything fresh and focused.
The finish is impressively persistent, echoing the stone-fruit core with a gentle savoury mineral twist and a lingering kiss of citrus oil.
Recommended to be served at 12° C.