Waterkloof, Seriously Cool Cinsault 2016, Stellenbosch, South Africa

Tasting Note: A grape varietal with panache and elegance dripping.

For those of you who aren’t familiar with cinsault, it sort of tastes like a cross of Beaujolais (gamay) and pinot noir.

Medium-intensity ruby in color this wine has an aromatic nose of violet, blossom, gardenia, black plum and raspberry.

On the palate the dry, medium-bodied cinsault delivers flavors suggested on the nose along with strawberry and violet.

The wine is smooth with medium tannin that is barely perceptible but contributes to the structure of the wine overall.

An impressive cinsault with floral aromas that excite the senses.

Bottle Note: Cinsault – The Cape’s “Cinderella” grape – less fashionable, but far lovelier than her proud haughty sisters, this hidden jewel has stopped out of the shadows and found its magic slippers in old, dry-farmed bush vines planted way back in 1964 and 1974, on south facing slopes overlooking False Bay. Vinified with respect – the Waterkloof way – using only wild yeasts, and the absolute minimum of intervention. Soft, supple, richly perfumed and rather elegant. Drink me cool, but take me seriously!