The 2012 Columella is a blend of 76% Syrah, 17% Mourvedre and 7% Grenache from the Swartland and Paardeberg area, hand-sorted and fermented in 2,000-liter open wooden fermenters and raised in barriques (10% new) for 12 months then one year in oval foudres. It has a very well-defined bouquet that repays time in the glass: wild strawberry and bilberry, cloves and white pepper, distant sea spray scents. The palate is medium-bodied with taut tannins, crisp acidity, superb backbone and real “authority” on the finish. One of those wines that will instantly change anyone who does not take South African wine seriously. 96 points