Savage Wines and the character of the Cape Coast

Savage Wines is the prestigious wine project of Duncan Savage, one of South Africa's most respected winemakers. After years of directing the wines of Cape Point Vineyards, he founded his own label in 2011 with a clear mission: to craft terroir-driven wines that exude finesse, energy, and elegance. The Girl Next Door is one of his iconic cuvées, sourced from extremely cool vineyards near the ocean.

Origin and vineyards by the ocean

The 2023 edition of The Girl Next Door is sourced for the first time from two separate vineyards, both located close to the South African coast. The vines grow on granite-rich soils and are exposed to salty sea breezes. This maritime influence is literally visible: a thin layer of salt can sometimes be found on the leaves. The result is a Syrah with a striking salty minerality and a distinct cool-climate character.

Vinification and style

The harvest is entirely by hand. A large portion of the grapes are fermented in whole bunches to preserve tension, structure, and aromatic complexity. Spontaneous fermentation occurs with indigenous yeasts, followed by aging for approximately 10 months in used wooden barrels. The wine is bottled unfiltered and uses minimal sulfites. Everything is focused on the pure transmission of terroir and grape.

Smell, colour and taste of the 2023 vintage

In the glass, the wine displays a deep ruby purple color with a bright rim. The aroma is remarkably expressive, with notes of black pepper, lavender, orris root, and dark fruits like black cherry and blackberry. The salty undertone creates a unique and complex aroma. On the palate, the wine is refined and energetic, with a silky texture, ripe tannins, and a lively acidity that provides freshness and length. The finish is clean, spicy, and mineral.

Robert Parker's Review – The Wine Advocate

Monica Larner of Robert Parker's Wine Advocate rated the 2023 The Girl Next Door 96 out of 100. She called it an exceptionally polished and refined wine with a distinct maritime character. Instead of the usual white pepper often found in Syrah, black pepper is prominent here. Lavender and orris root are also prominent. According to Larner, this is a special Syrah that will continue to improve in the coming years. The wine will reach its full potential between 2025 and 2038.

Serving tips and storage potential

Serve this wine preferably at around 16 degrees Celsius. Decanting is recommended for younger bottles to fully develop the aroma and structure. The wine is already expressive, but has sufficient tension and structure to continue developing in bottle until at least 2038.

Would you like to order wines from Savage Wines online?

FACT: In the "Attachments" tab, you'll find the official fact sheet for this fine wine. We'll automatically send it to you when you order it. The wine is stored in our climate-controlled Wine Warehouse, and if you pick it up, you'll often receive a nice discount . You'll see your discount immediately when you select "Pick up" at checkout. We're located in Dordrecht, just off the A16 motorway, with ample parking. Click here for our address.

You can read the full wine reviews from Parker, Suckling, Vinous, and Wine Spectator, among others, via the links next to the image. This is a free service for our customers. Need advice on finding the perfect wine to pair with your dish?

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Wine and food pairings with 2023 The Girl Next Door

1. Roast beef with black garlic and grilled eggplant
   The spiciness and minerality of the wine enhance the savory components of this meat dish.

2. Grilled tuna with nori and sesame-soy dressing
   The salty character of the wine complements the umami and fattiness of the tuna perfectly.

3. Leg of lamb with lavender and rosemary
   The floral notes in the wine form a harmonious whole with the Provencal herbs.

4. Duck breast with blackberries and port sauce
   The combination of concentrated red fruit and earthy sauce calls for a wine with length and structure.

5. Roasted mushrooms with lentils and thyme
   The earthy flavours of mushrooms are enhanced by the pure expression of the Syrah.

6. Rice salad with roasted peppers and goat cheese
   The fresh acidity and elegant spiciness give this light dish a refined lift.