Blank Bottle Master of None 2025

BLANKBottle produces a diverse range of wines that vary from year to year, crafted by renowned winemaker Pieter H. Walser during his explorations through South African vineyards. What sets Walser's operation apart is that he doesn't own any vineyards and seldom repeats the same wine. Instead, he sources grapes from approximately 60 vineyards scattered across the Western Cape. His unconventional approach extends beyond the label, as he intentionally avoids divulging information about the grapes or blend. Walser prefers to maintain a laid-back attitude towards winemaking, simply letting things flow without overthinking.

A wonderfully unconventional South African red, Master of None brings together fruit from vineyards across the Western Cape, combining lighter-style red varieties including Grenache, Cinsaut and Pinot Noir with a diverse selection of white grapes. The result is a fresh, vibrant and unique wine that sits somewhere between a traditional red and a chilled summer sipper.

The reds are fermented with a combination of whole bunches and destemmed grapes, spending around three weeks on their skins before ageing in older French oak. The white grapes are whole-bunch pressed and spontaneously fermented in French oak, amphora and concrete, spending 10 months on their lees before being blended with the reds.

Light on its feet but still unmistakably a red, it is juicy, refreshing and full of character, with the white varieties adding brightness and texture through the mid-palate. Best served lightly chilled, this is an incredibly versatile bottle that works just as well by the pool as it does alongside food. Vegan.