# Baby Bandito Chin Up Cinsault (2023)

- **Producer:** Testalonga
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Cinsault
- **Region:** Western Cape, South Africa
- **Style:** Natural
- **Alcohol:** 12.0%
- **Average price:** €22
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 12–14 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** strawberry, cherry, raspberry, rose, white pepper, smoke

## About this wine

Testalonga was established in 2008 by Craig and Carla Hawkins in the Swartland region of South Africa. Known as pioneers of the South African natural wine movement, they focus on minimal intervention, organic farming, and showcasing the unique terroir of old, dry-farmed bush vines. The 'Baby Bandito' range was created to be highly accessible, fresh, and energetic. The name 'Chin Up' is an encouraging nod to staying positive, featuring a distinctive label photo taken by Craig. This wine is made from 100% Cinsault sourced from a single vineyard planted in 1981 on decomposed granite soils.

## Interesting facts

- The 'Baby Bandito' labels feature street photography taken by winemaker Craig Hawkins during his travels.
- Made from dry-farmed bush vines planted in 1981 on pure decomposed granite soils in the Swartland.
- The name 'Chin Up' is a motivational phrase meant to inspire optimism and resilience.

## Food pairing

This light-bodied, high-acid Cinsault acts much like a Cru Beaujolais. Its vibrant acidity cuts through moderate fats in pork and duck, while its low tannin profile prevents it from clashing with lighter proteins like tuna or chicken. The bright red fruit notes complement earthy elements like mushrooms and cured meats beautifully.

## Wine making process

The grapes are hand-harvested early to retain natural acidity and keep alcohol levels low. In the cellar, the winemaking is incredibly straightforward and low-intervention. The Cinsault grapes undergo 100% whole-bunch fermentation using native yeasts in stainless steel tanks. The wine is then aged in old French oak foudres to preserve the bright primary fruit characteristics without imparting oak flavors. It is bottled unfined and unfiltered, with only a minimal addition of sulfur dioxide at bottling.