Rooted in over a century of history
Some wines tell the story of a season. Others tell the story of a place. A rare few tell the story of generations.
Alto La Residence Heritage Blend 2022 is a return to the roots of Alto Rouge, created to commemorate the estate’s milestone 100th vintage of Alto Rouge, celebrated in 2024. Drawing inspiration from the varieties that shaped Alto’s earliest wines, the blend honours a legacy more than a century in the making.
BACK TO THE BEGINNING
More than a limited-edition wine, the historic blend is a journey back to the origins of a legacy that began over a century ago on the slopes of Stellenbosch’s Helderberg.
Produced in a limited run of just 1,000 magnums, this special release pays homage to the original La Residence Alto Rouge, drawing inspiration from the blend that helped establish Alto’s reputation in the early years of South African winemaking. In a nod to history, the wine reintroduces Cinsault as a significant component of the blend, a variety that played a defining role in Alto Rouge’s early identity but has been absent for decades.
A BLEND OF PAST AND PRESENT
Alto La Residence Heritage Blend 2022 is a return to the roots of Alto Rouge, drawing inspiration from the varieties that shaped the estate’s earliest wines on the Helderberg slopes. A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cinsault and Shiraz, it nods to the original composition of Alto Rouge while capturing the character of a modern Stellenbosch red.
What makes this release unique is the way it balances history with drinkability. On the nose, layers of cherry, plum and cassis unfold alongside hints of pencil shavings and spice. The palate is fresh and expressive, with bright acidity, fine tannins and a smooth, elegant finish.
But what makes this release particularly compelling is not only its connection to the past, but what it represents today. In a world increasingly focused on what’s next, there is something deeply meaningful about revisiting where it all began. Heritage is not simply about preserving history; it is about understanding the stories, decisions and traditions that continue to shape the future.
Every bottle is a reminder that great wine is never created in a single vintage. It is the result of decades of knowledge passed from one generation to the next, of vineyards that mature over time, and of a commitment to excellence that endures long after trends have faded.
A CENTURY IN THE GLASS
For collectors and wine lovers alike, the Alto La Residence Heritage Blend 2022 offers more than rarity. It offers a tangible connection to South African wine history, a chance to experience a blend that honours the past while remaining firmly rooted in the present. Over one hundred vintages later, Alto Rouge remains what it has always been: a reflection of its terroir, its heritage and the people who have dedicated their lives to its story.