Savage White 2024

Savage White 2024 is a white Bordeaux-style cuvée consisting of approximately 75% Sauvignon Blanc and 25% Sémillon. The wine comes from several cool vineyards in the Western Cape – with grape material from Stellenbosch, Overberg and Villiersdorp, among others. The grapes are pressed as whole clusters and ferment spontaneously or with wild yeast (at least without commercial yeast added), and the wine is matured in large French oak barrels (500 liters), with approximately 20% new oak. The aging lasts for approximately 10-12 months.

The nose offers complex aromas where Sauvignon Blanc dominates with notes of grapefruit, green apple pastille, lemon and citrus, as well as hints of herbs, fennel, a little chamomile and flowers (like elderberry and other white flowers). The Sémillon part gives more depth: yellow fruit like peach and nectarine, waxy or beeswaxy nuances and a touch of ripe stone fruit. There is also clear minerality, slightly reductive tones – like wet stones, wet slate, perhaps slightly salty or gravelly nuances on the nose, which gradually open up in the glass.

In the mouth the wine is structured and well balanced, with good fruitiness – both the crispness of Sauvignon Blanc and the slightly richer, creamy texture of Sémillon. The acidity is clear, precise and with a nice sharpness that gives freshness without being harsh. There is also a subtle oak influence: a little spice, vanilla or the warmth of the oak, without it being overly woody. The finish is long, with minerality and a certain salinity or hint of salty elements, firmness in the acidity and an elegant, dry impression.

The alcohol strength is around 14%

Savage White 2024 is a wine that works well now, but also has the potential to mature over several years. For those who enjoy wine with both freshness and complexity – with a bit of texture and depth – it will be very interesting.