Rustenberg's flagship wine, name after previous owner, John Xavier Merriman. This is a Bordeaux-style blend comprising Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc, aged in French barriques - 35% new - for 20 months. Aromas of black cherry jam, chocolate, mint and sweet spices rise from the glass. It has a rich, smooth body with grippy tannins and tight black fruits, accompanied by tangy red fruits and a hint of milk chocolate and herb. Available from January 2018.

The 2015 John X Merriman is a blend of 52% Merlot, 41% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Malbec and 1% each of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. In the glass, the wine offers aromas of sage, thyme, cedar, cassis, fire-roasted peppers, dusty cherry and blackberry jus with plum reduction. Medium to full-bodied, the palate displays flavors of dried tobacco, blackberry and pepper chutney with elements of baked earth, leather and dusty red flowers. The mid-palate shows remarkable balance between the alcohol and energetic acidity before the lifting tannins take the lead, finishing with a long-lingering and soft dusty grip. Just under 3,500 bottles were filled after resting for 20 months in oak barriques (35% new French).