Wines Stellenbosch Savage Hommage à B - 2020

Viniou Reviews

Savage Hommage à B 2020 is a remarkable red wine from the renowned Stellenbosch region in South Africa’s Coastal Region. Crafted by the talented Duncan Savage, this cuvée is known for its finesse and personality. While the precise blend is not detailed, the Savage red wines frequently feature Syrah as the backbone, sometimes enhanced with Grenache or other Rhône varietals, all vinified in a manner that emphasises elegance and terroir expression. The 2020 vintage benefited from a warm and dry growing season, resulting in wines with both concentration and expressive aromatics. The winemaking approach at Savage tends towards minimal intervention, allowing native yeasts to drive fermentation and using judicious oak aging to frame, but not overwhelm, the fruit.

Stellenbosch is one of South Africa’s oldest and most celebrated wine regions, drawing international acclaim for both its reds and whites. Nestled between the mountains and the coast, the vineyards profit from a temperate Mediterranean climate, which is moderated by cooling oceanic breezes from False Bay. The soils are primarily composed of decomposed granite and clay, contributing to both the structure and minerality of the wines. With a viticultural history dating back to the late 1600s, Stellenbosch has long been a centre for innovation and quality within South African wine, with modern winemakers like Duncan Savage leading a revival of more refined, terroir-driven reds.

For food pairings, Savage Hommage à B 2020 is an excellent companion to grilled or roasted meats, such as lamb with rosemary and garlic or classic South African dishes like bobotie—a gently spiced baked mince dish. The wine’s vibrant acidity and layered complexity also make it a worthy partner for game, mushroom risotto, or charred vegetables. If you wish to explore local fare, try it alongside Karoo lamb chops or a hearty potjie stew.

For the best tasting experience, serve this wine slightly cool, at around 16-18°C. Let it breathe in a decanter for an hour before serving to allow its full aromatic profile to unfurl. This wine has excellent aging potential, but it already delivers beautifully if enjoyed now with the right meal and company.