Aslina Wines, Umsasane, 2021

Aslina Wines is the project of Ntsiki Biyela, South Africa’s first Black female winemaker and one of the most inspiring voices in the wine world. Umsasane, named after the umbrella tree and a tribute to Biyela’s late grandmother, is her flagship red—typically a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot, shaped by Stellenbosch’s warm days and cool nights. The 2021 vintage is beautifully composed: layers of blackcurrant, plum, and dark cherry are wrapped in cedar, dried herbs, and a touch of tobacco. The tannins are firm but polished, with just enough grip to frame the lush fruit, and the finish is long and savory with a sense of quiet strength. It's the kind of wine that balances tradition and identity—perfect with grilled meats, hearty stews, or rich vegetarian fare. A bottle with both story and structure.