The Liberator 'Telegram Sam' Red Blend 2023

Ask Rick what Telegram Sam reminds him of and he’d likely say it sits somewhere between a juicy Côtes du Rhône and a rebellious Cape red that refuses to behave. This is a wine with bounce — full of sun-kissed red fruit, spicy black pepper, and a lick of dried herbs that scream Mediterranean swagger. Think Grenache-led charm with a glint in its eye and rock 'n’ roll on the playlist.

It’s plush but not heavy, ripe but never gloopy. No over-extraction, no overthinking. Just a joyful, honest red blend that’s made for casual decanting and even more casual drinking. Serve it slightly cool and you’ll be amazed at how quickly the bottle empties.

A note from the importer, Rick (the alter ego of Richard Kelley MW, one of the world’s foremost experts on South African wine):
“Episode 42 — Telegram Sam — takes its name from a T. Rex track, but there’s nothing glam-rock about this wine apart from its sense of fun. Sourced from gnarly old vines in the Swartland, this Grenache-led blend is a nod to the region’s Rhône-influenced potential. Syrah adds a touch of spice and backbone, while Cinsault brings perfume and levity. It’s a wine that doesn’t take itself too seriously… though you probably should. This is liberated red at its most drinkable.”