Beaumont Vitruvian 2020

The red blend Vitruvian from Beaumont is named after a restored mill on the Bot River property, powered by mountain water via a water wheel – an ancient design named after Roman architect Vitruvius. He’s best known today for inspiring da Vinci’s Vitruvian Man, reflecting his core belief that the best designs reflect nature’s harmony, perfectly illustrated by the human form.

The 2020 vintage (price: R540 a bottle) is a potentially discordant but ultimately successful blend of 32% Syrah, 29% Mourvèdre, 23% Pinotage, 11% Cabernet Franc and 3% Petit Verdot, 60% of the key components co-fermented, maturation lasting 36 months in 225-litre barrels, 35% new.

The nose is complex with notes of raspberry, black cherry, plum, the vaguest hint of potpourri, fynbos, some meatiness, earth and spice. The palate is medium bodied with lively acidity and grippy but not astringent tannins. Intensely flavoured, mouth-watering and more-ish. Unshowy but far from muted – showing early signs of development that only enhance its intrigue. Alc: 12.82%.

CE’s rating: 94/100.

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