Miles Mossop The Introduction Roussanne 2020 Stellenbosch, Western Cape, South Africa 75cl

Miles Mossop spent nearly two decades as the winemaker at Tokara before going fully independent in 2018. Under his own label he makes wines in Stellenbosch with a light touch, and The Introduction range is his more approachable, fruit-forward tier, made to be fresh and characterful without losing a sense of place.

Roussanne is a rare sight in South Africa, a Rhône white more often found in southern France. This one is sourced from the Helderberg, whole-bunch pressed and left to ferment on wild yeast in older oak, where it rests for several months. The aim is texture and subtlety rather than overt oak or heavy fruit, and it sits alongside the reds in a range built to be enjoyed young without feeling simple.

The 2020 growing season in the Cape produced whites with good freshness and balance, and that shows here in a wine that stays lively despite its rounder varietal character. It is a white with weight, but one that keeps its poise, and it will hold and slowly deepen over a few years in bottle.

Expect gentle stone fruit and a light waxy, honeyed note, a broad and textured mid-palate and a dry, savoury finish. Serve it lightly chilled rather than cold, and give it a little air to open up. It pairs happily with roast chicken, creamy pasta, mild curries or a soft, washed-rind cheese.

For the curious drinker, this is a chance to try a grape most people never associate with South Africa, from a winemaker with a real pedigree behind it.