Every revolution needs a spark…and that spark ignited back in 2010, when a handful of talented young winemakers gathered in the Swartland region of South Africa’s Western Cape to form the Swartland Revolution—arguably the most influential wine movement since the dawn of the new millennium. The young dynamos successfully placed this spot firmly on the “amazing wine” map. And now you get to taste for yourself. Reign of Terroir celebrates the pioneering spirit embraced by winemaker Leon Esterhuizen—it’s pure, hand-harvested Pinotage (South Africa’s signature grape; a cross of Pinot Noir and Cinsault) that’s been oak aged. This is a wine that positively brims with plums, blackcurrant, and cherries with a touch of smoky spice. It is well-balanced, with silky tannins, a rounded structure, and a long + generous finish. Leon’s sustainably farmed vines thrive in the meager, well-draining shale/quartz soils here—roots burrowing deep underground to tap into water and berries gaining an extraordinary aromatic intensity and flavor complexity as a result of the stress. (Here, the French concept of Terroir Reigns supreme.) A fantastic partner for spice-rubbed ribs, grilled lamb shanks, roasted beets, and portobello mushroom burgers.