Savage, Red, Western Cape, South Africa, 2018

100% Syrah, predominantly from Stellenbosch but also some from Swartland. An appealing nose showing red and black fruit, rose, lilies, pelargonium and white pepper. The palate has lovely fruit expression, bright acidity and super-fine tannins. Delicate, detailed and beautifully poised.

His Syrah parcel was only planted on a local residential estate for decorative purposes – a bit of flora between the houses. He somehow managed to make it the cornerstone of the Savage Red blend, which boasts the nerve and tension of great Northern Rhône.