Wines Swartland Radford Dale - Black Rock - 2020

Viniou Reviews

Radford Dale’s Black Rock 2020 from Swartland is a captivating South African red blend that masterfully exemplifies Swartland’s progressive winemaking ethos. Typically comprising a harmonious assemblage of Syrah, Grenache, Carignan, Cinsault, and occasionally Mourvèdre, this cuvée draws on bush vine fruit from old, dry-farmed vineyards. The 2020 vintage enjoyed a temperate growing season, producing a wine with impressive vibrancy, structure, and purity. In the glass, it offers generous aromas of black cherries, ripe plums, violets, and dried herbs, underpinned by subtle spice from sensitive oak maturation. The palate is plush yet energetic, with fine-grained tannins and a core of succulent, sun-drenched fruit balanced by a refreshing mineral backbone.

The Swartland region, part of South Africa’s Coastal Region, is renowned for its rugged beauty and innovative spirit. Benefiting from the cooling Atlantic breezes, Swartland’s Mediterranean climate features hot, dry summers and cool nights, ideal for slow, even grape ripening. The soils are a crucial part of the terroir, with a patchwork of ancient granite, schist, and shale lending depth and complexity to the wines. Historically an area for bulk wine, Swartland has rapidly ascended to international acclaim thanks to a group of dynamic producers focused on low intervention and the expressive potential of Rhône and Mediterranean varieties.

Black Rock’s versatile and expressive character makes it a superb match for a variety of dishes. Its nuanced spicy notes shine alongside grilled lamb cutlets with rosemary, slow-roasted game, or a rich Provençal ratatouille. For a South African pairing, try bobotie—a fragrant, spiced mince bake—or braaied beef short ribs. The wine’s natural lift and energy also complement charcuterie, hard cheeses, or mushroom-based dishes.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine at 16-18°C. Decanting for an hour before tasting will allow the aromas to open fully and soften the tannins, revealing all the layered charm and complexity this sophisticated Swartland blend has to offer.