Badenhorst Family Red Blend 2019

A.A. Badenhorst sits in the Swartland, north of Cape Town, where cousins Hein and Adi Badenhorst rebuilt their grandparents' half-abandoned Kalmoesfontein farm and now grow, make and age their wines by hand. This organic red is a southern-Rhône-style blend of Syrah, Mourvèdre, Grenache and Cinsault. The Swartland is warm and dry, with old dryland bush vines rooted in decomposed granite and schist that yield small crops of concentrated fruit, while the region's slate and clay soils lend structure and a savoury, mineral character. Cooling Atlantic influence and cool nights keep the acidity fresh despite the heat, and the 12.8 percent alcohol points to an early, balanced harvest. Fermentation with native yeasts is followed by ageing in old wood, so the barrel rounds the tannins and allows gentle oxygenation without adding oak flavour. It shows a medium-deep ruby, with red and dark berries, plum and cherry over black pepper, dried herbs and a wild, garrigue-like edge. The palate is fresh and savoury, with supple tannins and a peppery, herbal finish. Serve at 16 to 17 degrees with grilled and roast meats.