Roving Sommelier is passionate about premium quality regional South African wines.  Marras Wines, as South African as ‘braaibroodjies’ and big open skies, is the project of Martin Lamprecht who is happiest among the tough bush vines of the Swartland and Piekenierskloof regions. A taste of the jackal’s searching soul, he channels this rugged terrain with his unpretentious winemaking style into a bottle, showcasing his sincere appreciation of the land he stalks.

If a grape could talk… luckily, they can’t because they’d have stories from the Swartland to make your mum blush. While the Swartland is mainly known for wheat, little pearls of juicy berries are coming after its crown; the small, concentrated berries of the vines produce well-balanced and exceptionally ripe and deep-flavoured site-specific wines. Marras sought out parcels of grapes from the Paardeberg and Kasteelberg respectively to produce a lean, mineral-driven Chenin Blanc and a silky-smooth Shiraz-Cinsault blend sculpted around smoke and spice.

Hand-harvested Shiraz and Cinsault grapes, cooled overnight. 10% whole bunches. Grapes were cold soaked and partially natural fermented while minimal extraction was done. Maturing separately in older oak barrels.

Best enjoyed either on its own or with food, especially roasted or char-grilled meats, steaks, burgers and chops, also perfect with pan-fried duck breasts.