# Thief in the Night (2021)

- **Producer:** Savage Wines LTD
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Grenache, Cinsault, Syrah
- **Region:** Western Cape, South Africa
- **Style:** Natural
- **Alcohol:** 13.6%
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Aromas & flavours:** raspberry, red cherry, red plum, violet, spice, leather, earth

## About this wine

The Savage Thief in the Night 2021 is a red wine from Savage Wines LTD, a producer led by winemaker Duncan Savage. The wine is a blend primarily composed of Grenache (around 86%), with smaller amounts of Cinsault and Syrah, sourced from the WO Piekenierskloof appellation in the Western Cape, South Africa. The grapes are grown on dry-farmed bush vines in sandstone soils. This wine is recognized for its purity and individual character, drawing from the unique expression of its origin. The 2021 vintage is characterized by good fruit density and fresh acidity.

## Interesting facts

- Grenache is the dominant grape, making up approximately 86% of the blend.
- The Piekenierskloof vineyard is also used for Sadie's Soldaat wine.
- Duncan Savage has been recognized as Winemaker of the Year by both Tim Atkin MW and Platter's Guide.

## Food pairing

The wine's medium body and firm tannins are well-suited to complement the protein in dishes like lamb and beef, while its vibrant fruit notes can harmonize with the sweetness of fruit-based accompaniments. The wine's freshness can cut through richer elements, creating balance.

## Wine making process

The Savage Thief in the Night 2021 is produced using a blend of Grenache, Cinsault, and Syrah from Piekenierskloof. Approximately 10-20% of the grapes undergo whole-bunch fermentation. The wine is then fermented and aged for 10 months in neutral foudre. This approach aims to capture the purity and expression of the vineyard and region.