2023 Savage, Thief in the Night, Western Cape, South Africa

Hewn from sandstone-planted bush vines at 704m above sea level, the character of the soils and the significant diurnal shifts create a light-filled ripeness. Sweet black fruit and violet highlights contrast with meaty undertones and a soft, gossamer acidity. Generous, ripe tannins tailor to a dry yet fruit-packed finish. Gently handled, the wine was spontaneously fermented in a mix of conical foudres and open-top fermenters with some whole bunch. Maturation in concrete eggs and older 500-litre barrels.

Blood oranges, pomegranate, tea leaves and wild herbs on the nose. It’s medium-bodied and silky yet firm on the palate with tight, agile tannins. I like the herbal undertones. Grenache with 11% cinsault at 650 meters above sea level on sandstone soils. Drink from 2025.