A 2014 Rhone-style blend from the Western Cape region of South Africa (the French quarter, Franschoek). There is 45% Shiraz with Grenache, Mourvedre, Cinsault, and Tannat. Aged for 16 months in French oak barrels. Medium aromas of sour cherry, plum, roses, black pepper, oak, anise, coffee. It's creamy with medium to strong drying tannins. Long finish of pepper with some lingering bitterness and tartness. Very well-balanced. Highly enjoyable and exceptional quality/price ratio.

Mainly a Rhone grapes blend (but with a little Tannat added), this is a balanced delicious wine with loads of character. Ripe, intense, complex, with hints of cured meat and pepper. Oak is well integrated and the finish has some lemony acidity. Really well done and picked up on sale for $16. Tasted July 2018.