Sourced from a wind-exposed site in Polkadraai on granitic soils, this blend spends two years aging—first in old 500-liter barrels and then in foudres and conical tanks. The bouquet expresses brambly red fruit and light tertiary scents, while the medium-bodied palate offers a pliant entry, with white pepper and fennel spices lifting the finish. A sophisticated, harmonious wine that stands out in the lineup.
Duncan Savage was the winemaker at Cape Point Vineyards' for 14 vintages. In 2011, he started his own label on the side. Through his time at Cape Point, Duncan grew to understand maritime vineyards and crafted a reputation for profound and saline whites with great aging potential; this led him to source grapes for his own project, Savage Wines, from similar maritime and high altitude sites. His wines were met with great acclaim and in 2016 he quit his job to turn his attention to his namesake project. At first he created wine by borrowing other people's wineries but today he uses his own winery in Salt River, Cape Town. Duncan is no doubt one of the best winemakers in South Africa. In fact, Tim Atkin (MW) has proclaimed, "Duncan Savage thinks he hasn't hit his full potential yet. Heaven help his rivals when he does.
95 Points, Vinous
The 2023 Red Blend is pure Shiraz picked before the harvest rains: 30% submerged cap, 70% whole cluster, with three weeks on the skins, 13 months in500-litre barrels and ten months in foudre. It has a beautiful nose with a mixture of blueberry and blackberry fruit, crushed violet and wonderful crushed stone notes. After a time, it reminds me of a medicine cabinet that has been closed a long time. The palate is medium-bodied with a slightly briny entry. Fine depth, precise, Cornas-like, with a cool and saline finish, with a marine- influenced finish. Excellent.
