Miles Mossop Chapter One Cinsault 2021 Swartland, Western Cape, South Africa 75cl

Miles Mossop made his name as the long-serving winemaker at Tokara before turning full time to his own label, a small Stellenbosch-based project he had run on the side for years. His wines fall into named flagships and a more accessible Chapter range, of which this is the first. The style throughout favours freshness and drinkability over sheer weight, letting the fruit lead.

Cinsault has deep roots in South Africa and is enjoying a real revival, prized for its light colour, perfume and low-tannin charm. This is a pure Cinsault sourced from the Swartland, a warm, dry district north of Cape Town known for characterful old-vine reds and a wave of independent-minded winemaking. Made in a gentle, unforced style, it is built to be enjoyed young and even lightly chilled.

The 2021 was a cooler, well-regarded Cape vintage, and that freshness suits Cinsault well, holding the fruit bright and the acidity lively.

Expect a pale, glowing red with aromas of red cherry, pomegranate and a hint of dried herbs and Cape fynbos. The palate is light to medium-bodied, fresh and juicy, with soft, fine tannins and a savoury finish. A short time in the fridge, around 20 minutes, lifts it further and shows the wine at its best.

If you enjoy lighter, fragrant reds such as Beaujolais or a fresh Loire red, this is a natural next step, and a good introduction to the modern Swartland style and to Miles Mossop’s own wines. Good with charcuterie, roasted vegetables, or grilled chicken.