De Grendel’s Rubaiyat is the estate’s flagship Bordeaux-style blend and one of South Africa’s most consistently acclaimed red wines. Produced only in vintages of exceptional quality, Rubaiyat reflects meticulous vineyard selection and masterful blending.

The 2020 vintage comes from a warm, balanced growing season in the Durbanville region, resulting in a wine of generous fruit concentration, plush texture and impressive age-worthiness.

Tasting Notes

Colour: Deep ruby with a nearly opaque garnet centre.

Nose: Expressive and layered. Aromas of ripe blackcurrant, cassis and blackberry are supported by notes of cedar, cigar box, crushed violets and hints of mocha and baking spice.

Palate: Rich and full-bodied with velvety tannins. Flavours of dark plum, black cherry and cassis unfold over a framework of well-integrated French oak. Subtle graphite, cocoa, and savoury herbal accents add depth. Despite its concentration, the palate remains balanced by fresh acidity and elegant structure.

Finish: Long, polished and persistent, with lingering black fruit, fine tannins and a refined touch of oak spice. Built for long-term evolution.

Awards & Accolades for Rubaiyat

1. The 2020 vintage of De Grendel Rubaiyat received a Gold medal at the Decanter World Wine Awards (2025) with a score of 95/10

Technical Details

1. Producer: De Grendel Wine Estate, Durbanville, Western Cape
2. Vintage: 2020
3. Wine Style: Bordeaux-style red blend
4. Grape Composition: Cabernet Sauvignon-led, with Merlot, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc (typical for Rubaiyat; proportions vary by vintage)
5. Maturation: Aged in French oak barrels (largely new) for ±18–20 months
6. Alcohol: ±14.0–14.5% ABV
7. Bottle Size: 750ml
8. Cellaring Potential: 12–20+ years
9. Serving Temperature: 16–18°C

Food Pairing

Excellent with prime rib, lamb rump, venison loin, beef fillet, truffle dishes, and mature hard cheeses. Its depth also complements richer sauces and slow-cooked meats.