2014 A.A. Badenhorst "Ramnasgras" Old Vine Cinsault Swartland

The 2014 Ramnasgras Cinsault comes from a vineyard planted in 1956 and it's a superb take on the variety by winemaker Adi Badenhorst. It has an almost Pinot Noir-like purity on the nose with wonderful definition and lift - Morello cherry, shortcake, a touch of orange zest and cola. The palate is very well balanced with harmonious, refined red berry fruit. The acidity keeps this tensile from start to finish and whilst the variety means that it just lacks the substance and weight on the finish that you might yearn, it remains a bottle that you will finish to the final drop. (NM)