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In The Mood For Shiraz & Cinsault is a South African red blend that combines two classic grape personalities into a versatile wine for casual dinners and social gatherings. The blend showcases the darker, spiced character of Shiraz alongside the lighter, floral fruit tones of Cinsault, creating a wine that is approachable yet layered.
The wine carries a clear sense of ripe red and dark fruit, with aromatic hints that invite a closer sniff. Alcohol is present but integrated; this bottling is marked at 14%, giving it a warm, rounded profile without overwhelming the fruit core.
On the palate, the interplay between juicier, berry-driven notes and gentle spice creates a balanced experience. Tannins are supple rather than aggressive, and acidity provides freshness that keeps the wine lively from the first sip to the finish.
Serve slightly cool to bring out the fruit and soften the spice; a suggested serving temperature is around 15°C to highlight both fragrance and structure.
Tasting notes
Appearance: the wine pours with a deep ruby hue that hints at concentrated fruit. The color is inviting and signals a red blend with both ripe and fresher elements.
Aroma: upfront, expect a mix of red berries and darker plum, lifted by floral and peppery notes. The Shiraz contributes spicy nuances while Cinsault brings a touch of perfume and bright red-fruit tones.
Palate: the mouthfeel leans toward smooth and rounded, with pleasant fruit sweetness balanced by moderate acidity. Flavors of blackberry, cherry and a whiff of black pepper carry through mid-palate.
Finish and balance: the finish is steady and reasonably long, finishing with soft tannins and a spicy aftertaste that complements the fruit. Overall balance favors harmony between fruit, spice and acidity rather than dominance by any single element.
Food pairings and serving
This Shiraz–Cinsault blend pairs well with a wide range of foods. It complements grilled and barbecued dishes where smoky char and savory spices echo the wine’s peppery notes.
For lighter gatherings, serve alongside mixed appetizers, charcuterie or tapas-style plates that include cured meats and marinated vegetables. The wine’s fruit and acidity help cut through fattier bites.
Soft and semi-hard cheeses are natural companions; think cheddar, manchego or a mild blue for contrast. The wine’s balance makes it easy to enjoy across a cheese board shared with friends.
When serving, decant briefly or let the wine breathe in the glass for 15–30 minutes to open aromatics. Keep it slightly cool, near 15°C, to maintain freshness while allowing the spice and fruit to express themselves.
Why this South African red blend fits many occasions
The combination of Shiraz and Cinsault creates a wine that is simultaneously expressive and adaptable, suitable for relaxed weeknight meals as well as lively social gatherings. It feels both familiar and interesting on the table.
Its fragrance-driven fruit and gentle spice make it versatile with food, so it works well when hosting friends or pairing with a variety of plates without demanding a specific menu.
Overall, this South African red blend offers approachable complexity: aromatic appeal, balanced structure and a finish that invites another glass while complementing a range of flavors from grilled meats to shared snacks and cheeses.
