AA Badenhorst Secateurs Red Blend 2012
Editor Rating
- Rated 4.5 stars
- Outstanding
- Swartland
- Reviewed by: Treve Ring
- Published on: August 15, 2016
- Last modified: August 15, 2016
Review Summary:
Authentic South Africa from the characterful oracle of the movement himself, Adi Badenhorst. Shiraz, Cinsault, Tinta Barocca, Grenache and Mourvèdre from the Badenhorst home farm Kalmoesfontein were foot-trodden, wild yeast-fermented and left in closed concrete on their skins for 6 months before pressing off to rest quietly in huge old casks for an additional 16 months. Savoury cherry, wild strawberry, brambles and fine stony dust lure and lead onto a fresh palate, one worn around the edges by time. Cherry continues to lead the show, joined with aged leather, scrubby medicinal-tinged herbs, wildflowers, broken stone and an undercurrent of cured meat and cracked black pepper. Tannins are fine, slightly grippy and confidently subtle, handily propping up the textured, gently ripe fruit. Medicinal herbs linger on the lengthy finish. All this complexity in a welcome 13% alcohol. Stock up and spread the word about this fantastic value.