A.A. Badenhorst, Ramnasgras, Cinsault

After my crushing defeat following my second attempt at the Master exam, I embarked on something of a vision quest to South Africa. I had intensely studied the region and had been inspired by the history and constantly evolving influences in the re-emerging, bustling wine scene. I will admit, nothing prepared me for the life-changing experience that brought this singular region and its wines to life. During my travels, I had the pleasure of meeting Adi Badenhorst, who is without question one of the most well-known wine personalities in South Africa. His long, Viking-like blonde hair and kindred spirit engrave an impression that never leaves. His wines more than live up to that same energetic life force and charismatic personality in the glass. Derived from 70-year-old, dry-farmed bush vines in the Swartland district, the 2014 Ramnasgras Red represents perhaps the most charming wine I have ever tasted from South Africa. Its clear, balanced form and an aromatic perfume are akin to great