Bouchard Finlayson, Hannibal, Hemel-en-Aarde, Walker Bay, South Africa 2018

Intense and dominated by big spicy, meaty aromas, which follow through onto the palate. Dark ripe fruit mingles with leather and liquorice, a slightly charred, burnt character and grippy tannins. This is dominated mostly by Italian varieties Sangiovese and Nebbiolo, but the remainder of the blend consists of Pinot Noir, Shiraz, Mourvedre and Barbera - an unusual mix to say the least! Originally the Shiraz grapes had been sourced from a neighbouring vineyard for this cuvée, but in 2018 the estate's own Shiraz vines produced a quality crop and therefore went into this blend. Each variety is fermented separately and aged for almost a year in French oak, with the blend being finalised afterwards.