Location: Bandits Kloof, Eendekuil, Piketberg, Swartland, South Africa
Grapes: 100% Colombard
Style: Pét-Nat | Organic | No Added Sulphur
off dry + super drinkable | crunchy apples + white peaches | appletize for grown-up
Winemaker(s): Craig Hawkins — a leading figure of the Swartland new wave, celebrated for low-intervention wines and an experimental, outsider spirit. Works with small organic vineyard sites and minimal manipulation.
Winemaking: Hand-harvested, wild-fermented in stainless steel at 4°C, racked several times to clarify naturally. Bottled at ~60 g/L sugar to finish fermentation under crown cap. Disgorged after 10 months and topped with the same wine. Unfined, unfiltered, no added sulphur. 8.5% ABV.
Name Meaning: Inspired by a spontaneous conversation during bottling and a playful poolside photo — meant to express the carefree joy Craig wants people to experience with the wine.
Interesting Fact: “Testalonga” is Sicilian slang for bandit — the nickname of an unconventional winemaker Craig met in Sicily whose rebellious approach inspired Craig to forge his own path outside traditional norms.
Serve With: Aperitif, light antipasti, mild cheeses, seafood, or (ideally) in a swimming pool.
When to drink at Christmas: First one of the day – the sweetness and fizz will get you going
£24.00
1 in stock
