The 2018 John X Merriman is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Malbec matured in oak for 20 months. It offers an attractive nose of black plum, blueberry and violet scents, plus a subtle marine note in the background. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins, a generous pinch of black pepper on the entry, good weight and the focus and precision I have come to expect from this top cuv?e from Rustenberg. Classy.