John X. Merriman purchased part of the Rustenberg farm in 1892 (it was subsequently bought by the current owners, the Barlow family, in 1940) and this Cabernet-dominated blend is named after him. As with all Rustenberg wines, this is a fine, structured bottling that’s more than New World. Offers smoky fruit, a mineral character, and dry tannins. This has potential to age for at least five years.——R.V.(11/1/2006)—— 93