David Finlayson The Pepper Pot 2022

The name here gives you a bit of a nudge about what to expect in the glass. This Rhône inspired blend is made up of mainly Shiraz, which supplies the ripe berry fruits, around a third Grenache, bringing the peppery notes to the table, along with a little Mourvedre and Tannat. The ensemble makes a wine sleek and smooth on the palate with a good structure that shows off its plump fruitiness to magnificent effect.

With its ample structure it makes a great partner with rich and savoury red meat dishes or gutsy casseroles.

A third generation winemaker David Finlayson graduated in Stellenbosch before earning his stripes working and gaining experience around the world, including a stint at the world-renowned Château Margaux. In the early 2000s he established his current estate, Edgebaston Vineyard, situated on the slopes of the Simonsberg from where he makes an impressive range of cuvées of which The Pepper Pot is one of his mainstays and perennially popular wines.