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Testalonga Follow Your Dreams Baby Bandito Carignan 2022

Testalonga Follow Your Dreams Baby Bandito Carignan 2022

$40.80 In any mixed 6
$48.00 per single bottle
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Tasting Notes

Why is this wine so attractive as a light bodied, light coloured, natural, late ripening red? And out of South Africa, not Spain or France? Intriguing! Simply, I loved the light rounded feel of the red fruits. And leave it to decant for a few hours, but cool (14-16 C). Food match of grilled salmon and salad, or healthy dips like baba ganoush while lazing around. - Michael L

Craig Hawkins is a man who doesn't follow the crowd. He pushes the boundaries in his quest for purity and authenticity in his wines. So much so, in fact, that Testalonga has often been denied export classification by the South African wine authorities. His wines defy the 'normal' categories, breaking the conventions, and leading to a range of wines that are as delicious as they are interesting.

Testalonga was established in 2008, when Craig and his wife, Carla, returned home to Swartland after working various vintages around the world. One of the producers that had the biggest influence on them was Matassa - a natural producer based in the Languedoc-Roussillon region. So it was only fitting that on their return to South Africa, Craig and Carla began to make wines in a similar style.

Their first vintage was simply two barrels of skin-contact Chenin Blanc - the very first orange wine in South Africa! When applying for an export licence, there was no option for orange wine anywhere on the form, so Testalonga was denied. But Craig stuck to his guns, knowing that his wine was good. To reflect this belief, he started putting it on his labels. His wines are now emblazoned with messages - Stay Brave, Keep On Punching, Follow Your Dreams and Chin Up.

In 2015, Craig and Carla purchased land in the north of Swartland, and have planted 4 hectares, which they hope to grow in the future. The fruit for their wines is currently sourced from organic, dry-grown vineyards, working with growers who share the same ideals as them.

In the winery, Craig vinifies with no additions or manipulations whatsoever, using tiny amounts of sulphur only when necessary. They are natural wines, reflecting the site and fruit. "We try to improve every year and look for purity," says Craig. "We put a lot of effort into doing the right thing at the right time."

Product Type Wine Red Other Varietals & Blends
Volume 750ml
Country South Africa
Region Swartland
Winemaking Practices Natural
Vineyard Practices Organic/Biodynamic