Savage Red 2022

Savage Wines is the project of Duncan Savage in South Africa's Coastal Region, where a strong Atlantic influence shapes the style of the wines. Savage Red is built around Syrah from cool, ocean-facing sites, and that maritime breeze brings a saline freshness and a savoury, peppery edge more akin to the northern Rhône than to warm-climate Shiraz. The vineyards sit on weathered soils near the coast, and the constant sea air slows ripening, holding the alcohol to a moderate 13.5 per cent while retaining firm tannin and dark fruit. Twenty-two months in barrel is a long, patient élevage that resolves the tannins through steady oxygen exchange and knits the oak into the wine. The colour is deep and dark. The nose is bold and expressive, with blackberry, plum and black cherry over black pepper, cured olive and a smoky, earthy base. The palate is full but fresh, with ripe dark fruit, firm structure and a long, savoury finish. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees, decanted an hour ahead, in a large glass. It suits grilled beef, lamb and game.