Testalonga, El Bandito Monkey Gone To Heaven, Swartland

Apparently this is mourvedre. Label says 100% stems, given the color and lack of tannins I'd say it was a very short maceration. Enjoyable, best served chilled.

Juicy, yet serious? Winemaker Craig Hawkins has struck that perfect balance here with a wine both pleasantly compelling yet exceptionally crushable. It comes across similar in style to Dirty & Rowdy - bright and refreshing, certainly, but still spicy, full-flavoured Mourvedre. I’d argue that this Testalonga offering leans a bit more towards that savoury and serious side - it carries that South African feel for sure. Red fruit gushes out of the bottle - complimented by touches of blackberry and …