Highlights: Cecilia Wines Cinsault 2025 Piekenierskloof, South Africa
Cinsault was historically a hugely important red grape for South Africa. Often, red ‘varietals’ from fancy grapes like Cabernet Sauvignon would have a good dollop of Cinsault in them. It’s a variety that copes with heat really well, making fresh, lighter-style red wines. There’s less of it now than there used to be, but still quite a bit, and its time has come.
Cecilia Wines Cinsault 2025 Piekenierskloof, South Africa
13% alcohol. Cerina van Niekerk was previously the winemaker at Piekenierskloof. Supple and sappy with lovely red cherry and strawberry fruit. There’s a real focus to this wine, with some silkiness and sweetness to the fruit, with a touch of redcurrant, but also showing a bit of tannic crunch and good acidity. This is a beautiful expression of Cinsault, so nuanced and floral. 93/100 (£22 Stone Vine and Sun)
