Savage | Girl Next Door | 2022
Savage | Girl Next Door | 2022
The star of another outstanding line-up from Duncan Savage. There are wines that are special because they are incredibly rare and there a wines that are special because they are of outstanding quality - the Girl Next Door is both. The Syrah is sourced from a tiny 0.38 hectare wind-swept vineyard next door to Duncan’s house by the beach in Fishhoek (hence the name). Originally planted only for ornamental value, Duncan would pass them on the way to the surf and naturally wondered what kind of wine these poor vines would create. The answer is one of the most unique, intense expressions of Syrah in the Western Cape.
Nose & Palate
“Initially delicately savoury and perfumed, the aromatics are fairly restrained showing notes of lavender, cured bresaola, hints of iron, graphite and piquant plummy blackberry spice. The palate texture is incredibly elegant and fine boned, showing light touch winemaking, silky soft dry powdery tannins and a smooth, cool, classical finish revealing blackberry fruits, black peppercorns and a gentle maritime salinity. A very fine, supple, complete expression of Syrah. Drink now and over the next 8 to 10+ years.” - Greg Sherwood MW
Pairing
Of course some red meat but the saline streak in this wine could go brilliantly with pecorino cheese so try Cacio e Pepe.
Accolades
96 Points - Tim Atkin MW | 94+ Points - Greg Sherwood MW | 96 Points - Christian Eedes | 5 Stars (96 Points) - Platter’s 2022 SA Wine Guide
About the Winemaker
Duncan Savage is on a constant pursuit of three things in his wine: refinement, elegance and purity. The speed at which he sells out every year is a good clue that he absolutely nails this pursuit in every bottle.
Before launching his own label, Duncan came to know maritime influenced vineyards intimately, working at Cape Point Vineyards for over a decade. As an avid surfer, working at a vineyard next to the ocean was a dream, but he always yearned to do his own thing. Since starting up Savage Wines in 2011, Duncan has been sourcing grapes he believes are most effective in South Africa from mostly maritime and high-altitude vineyards. He develops close relationships with the farmers, focuses on looking for acidity and picking early, producing wines with minimal intervention to let the grapes speak for themselves.
