The Savage Not Tonight Josephine 2024 is an exquisite, highly sought-after dessert wine. Winemaker Duncan Savage crafts this unique straw wine from 100% Chenin Blanc. He sources the grapes from high-altitude vineyards in Piekenierskloof. The team uses grapes from a young, trellised vineyard. They leave the grapes to dry naturally on nets for two to three weeks. This process concentrates the sugars and flavours immensely. The 2024 vintage marks a welcome return after a brief hiatus. It showcases remarkable purity and concentration.
This wine sets a high standard for South African sweet wines. Its exceptional balance of sweetness and acidity earns high praise.
- 95 Points: Christian Eedes (Winemag.co.za) previously awarded a similar high score (2020 Vintage).
- 94 Points: Neal Martin (Vinous) recognized its excellent balance and energy (2020 Vintage).
The 2024 vintage displays a deep golden, honeyed hue. After drying, the grapes are meticulously foot-stomped. A very slow natural fermentation occurs. This fermentation can last for up to a year. Winemakers age the wine for an extended period in old oak barrels. This careful process yields a wine of intense purity with a very low recovery rate.
The nose is complex and highly aromatic. It delivers extraordinary notes of dried peach, apricot, and pineapple pastille. You will also pick up hints of rooibos tea and fynbos. The palate is super-concentrated and luxurious. Racy acidity perfectly balances the intense sweetness. This crucial structure makes the wine taste much drier than the high sugar suggests. It offers exceptional aging potential. Enjoy this unique dessert wine with cheese or fruit tarts.
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