We are excited to offer the first Savage wines from the much-anticipated 2015 vintage. The highly rated Savage White 2015 reflects a change in style from previous vintages; while still led by Sauvignon Blanc and 36% Semillon, 11% Clairette Blanche and 9% Chenin Blanc have been added to the blend. Sourced from various parcels across the Western Cape, this vintage takes the shape of a Cape White blend rather than the previous Bordeaux White stylistic. It is brilliantly executed and shows more richness and fullness on the palate. Still very young, it needs at least 6 months to a year for all the components to come together.
The Savage Follow the Line 2015, now in its second year, is an elegant, medium-bodied wine. Produced in very limited quantities, it follows the aesthetic of the 2014, with a youthful, vibrant nose of red berries and spice that allude to the fresh palate that follows. The 2015 is a serious wine and is again a Cinsaut-led blend with 26% Grenache and 17% Syrah. Currently quite shy, we recommend that you only broach it in 6 months’ time to allow the fine tannins to unfurl.
Our favourite of the current releases is the 2014 Savage Red. Mostly because it is ready to enjoy, this elegant blend of Syrah, 15% Grenache, 11% Touriga Nacional and 8% Cinsaut is already well knit and shows off a fine balance of fruit, freshness and complexity. There is a wonderful savoury component and great composure to the 2014, with a hint of dark fruit from the Touriga Nacional that is cleverly integrated. While ready to drink, it will repay cellaring over the next 5-8 years.
These are highly sought-after wines from one of South Africa’s trailblazing winemakers; they are sure to sell out soon.
Tasting notes:
Savage White 2015 – R 195
A Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon based blend incorporates small amounts of Clairette Blanche and Chenin Blanc this year. This slightly bigger blend perhaps explains the wines broader aromatic profile. There is still the dusty lemon and herb spice, yellow grapefruit and lime peel freshness, but also extra notes of white pear, white pepper, white crunchy peaches and green apple zest… The palate is bold, intense and concentrated with pithy gravelly notes balanced by massive fruit concentration and length. Drink now to 2028+. – Greg Sherwood MW, 96 points
Savage Follow the Line 2015 – R 205
The 2015 is again electric, …the nose plush, lush, and very expressive combining an attractive red berry confit ripeness with true old world Languedoc sappy, spicy, stalky, savouriness… On the palate, there is such attention to detail with the Cinsaut, Grenache and Syrah blended seamlessly. Like the 2014, the cool 13 Abv and fresh, electric acids are a prominent hallmark shaping this wine… Drink now to 2026+. – Greg Sherwood MW, 95 points
Savage Red 2014 – R 220
In 2014, the Savage proprietary red once again remains a Syrah dominated blend with supporting roles played by Grenache, Touriga Nacional and Cinsaut with a 13 Abv. The nose is seductively dark, deep and broody with black bramble berries, mulberries, tar, grilled herbs and savoury, barbecued meats. But like all great wines, there are multiple complexing nuances on the nose … Like the previous three vintages, the Savage red shows incredible precision, elegance and poise… The 2014 definitely stands out for its incredible finesse, elegance and femininity. Already at this youthful stage, there is such integration and balance making it a true pleasure to drink. Drink from 2016 to 2028+. – Greg Sherwood MW, 95+ points
