2024 The Fledge & Co. - Souzao Skeleton Label Calitzdorp Western Cape (750ml)

The Fledge & Co. is a small South African project led by winemakers Leon Coetzee and Margaux Nel, known for seeking out old and unusual vineyard sites across the Cape and giving lesser-known Portuguese grape varieties a place in their lineup. This bottling is made from Souzão, a grape more typically found blending into Port back in Portugal's Douro Valley, but here vinified as a standalone red table wine, sourced from the Klein Karoo region.

Souzão is prized for its naturally intense color and juicy acidity, and this vintage shows both traits clearly. The wine pours a deep, almost opaque purple in the glass, with a nose full of raspberry, cherry, and a distinctive hint of gunpowder that gives the wine an untamed, slightly wild character. On the palate, it stays light to medium bodied despite its dark appearance, with bright acidity keeping the fruit lively rather than heavy. Dark berry flavors are joined by savory spice notes, and the finish carries a fresh, mouthwatering energy that makes the wine easy to return to.

This is a distinctive, food friendly red suited to grilled meats, charcuterie, or simply enjoyed on its own for those curious about lesser-known varietal expressions.