Savage Wines

Far from the maddening crowd in-between Noordhoek and Fish Hoek lie the vineyards belonging to Cape Point Vineyards. Well known particularly for their Sauvignon Blanc’s and Semillons produced under the Cape Point premium range they are also the winery behind the popular Splattered Toad Sauvignon Blanc and Red Blend.

The man who orchestrated the success of these fine wines is winemaker and viticulturist, Duncan Savage. Having graduated in 2002 he was approached by Cape Point Vineyards owner, Sybrand van der Spuy, who offered Duncan the position of winemaker. Duncan jumped at the opportunity especially as his outdoor hobby is surfing which meant he would have  Noordhoek beach close by!

Now having 11 vintages under his belt, he realised it was time to fulfil his lifelong dream which was to make a range of wines under his family name before he was 35! With Sybrand’s blessing, allowing Duncan to divide his time at Cape Point, he achieved this albeit only a few months after his 35^thbirthday! The wines, a white and a red, were proudly launched last month under the brand name of Savage Wines!

Duncan Savage

The Savage White 2012 is a blend of Sauvignon Blanc (70%) and Semillon grapes which were specifically selected by Duncan from some of the finest elevated and maritime vineyards in and around the Western Cape.    With each vineyard’s unique terroir contributing in its own distinctive way, along with the use of new and old large French Oak barrels, the wine offers extraordinary complexity and elegance with an ability to age for a further four to five years. The wine has a bright straw yellow tinge colour with fresh aromas of green apples and citrus with subtle hints of passion fruit. The invigorating palate offers silky lanolin flavours of  freshly cut  peach and apple leading to a well rounded finish.

Duncan Savage with an Amphora

The Savage Red 2011 is an intriguing yet delicious blend of three  cultivars led by Syrah at 72% with  Grenache at 21% ending off with 7% of  Cinsault. Duncan sources these grapes from farms where he has developed excellent relationships with their owners who understand the quality Duncan requires for this particular style of wine. These attributes are certainly evident in the wine and I was amazed to find that although the wine is complex and full bodied it has an appealing alcohol of only 12.8%. From its deep dark velvet colour you will discover aromas of  red cherries, and warm savoury spice. The palate is rich and intense with silky flavours of dark spicy fruit followed by firm tannins with a savoury aromatic finish. The wine is eminently drinkable now but has the pedigree to enjoy over the next ten years under correct cellaring conditions.

Two wonderful wines from Duncan and for the future, I am told, will be joined by several interesting single vineyard wines which will be released from 2014, also under the Savage Wines label.

Expect to pay:
Savage White: R180.00
Savage Red: R180.00