Luddite 'The Saboteur' Red Blend 2020

First made in 2009 this red blend is winemaker Niels Verburg's unashamedly New World version of what is essentially a Rhône style blend. It's sourced from fruit grown in the Bot River and Walker Bay regions with the blend being Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon and Mourvedre and it spent 12 months in barrel after fermentation. There was more Cabernet Sauvignon in the blend than in previous years, nevertheless it still keeps in the intended style of having bold fruit, good spice and soft tannins. The dark, ripe, rich fruits at first are backed up by black pepper, spice, a touch of earthiness and a smooth, silky texture.

A warm and decadent red which is definitely one of those red meat wines.

After working in vineyards around the world, Niels Verburg founded Luddite Wines in 1999 with a clear goal: to make world-class Shiraz. Their farm is located on the slopes of Houw Hoek Mountain, just outside the village of Bot River. Niels believes that good wines are made in the vineyard, so they farm as naturally as possible, without irrigation. Nearly 30 years later, Niels and his wife Penny have welcomed three children and six dogs into their lives. They're very content on their hill, having watched Luddite Wines grow into a respected and established label.