Follow the Line is Duncan Savage's tribute to old-vine Cinsault, sourced from a single dry-farmed bush-vine vineyard in Darling that he has worked with since 2011. The name comes from the directions he was given the first time he went looking for the vineyard: “just follow the phone line.” It has become one of the most sought-after light reds in the Cape, regularly compared to Pinot Noir for its perfume, purity and drinkability.

93% Cinsault, 7% Syrah from Darling. 50% whole-bunch fermentation; matured for 12 months in foudre and amphora.

Cinsault from a 44 year old dry farmed bush vine vineyard in Darling. The vines are grown in decomposed granite on a south facing slope which gets hammered by the prevailing south east wind off the cold Atlantic. As well as the new birds who cant stop hitting the crop as well. 1/3 of the crop was lost this year due to birds. 

Tasting Notes: All perfume and lift, with fresh violets, cherry blossom, rose water and red berry fruit on the nose, layered with sun-dried cranberry, lychee skin and a touch of Turkish delight. The palate is pure, bright and crunchy, with sappy red fruit, fine, sticky tannins and a lively line of acidity that carries through to a long, peppery finish. Light on its feet but far from simple, this is old-vine Cinsault doing exactly what it should. Don't underestimate the "lightness" of Cinsault, it drinks beautifully young but will age well up to 10 years.

Food Pairing: Bright, approachable red that rewards a light chill and moves effortlessly from warm‑weather sipping to the dinner table. Its lively red fruit and fresh acidity make it an ideal partner for charcuterie boards featuring cured meats and tangy pickles, while the wine’s subtle spice and silky texture complement grilled or pan‑seared duck breast. Seared salmon or tuna, pairings often reserved for Pinot Noir, work beautifully here thanks to the wine’s delicate structure and savoury lift. Earthy dishes such as mushroom risotto or a mushroom tart bring out its floral and umami notes, and soft, washed‑rind cheeses like a young Brie or Taleggio provide a creamy, aromatic counterpoint. Best enjoyed young and fresh, serve lightly chilled to around 14 to 16 degrees Celsius to showcase its brightness and lift.

'93% Cinsault, 7% Syrah from Darling. 50% whole-bunch fermentation; matured for 12 months in foudre and amphora. Alluring aromatics of red and black berries, fynbos, pepper and the merest hint of rose. Lean and taut, ultra-dry, the wine narrowing to a precise point. The acidity is beautifully integrated, lending the wine energy. Pure and precise. Alc: 12.7%.' – Christian Eedes, Winemag.co.za, 96/100 | Classic

ANALYSIS: ALC 12.7% | TA 4.8g/L | pH 3.71 | RS 2.1g/L