If you still associate South African wine with bold, heavy reds or safe supermarket Chenin Blanc, it’s time to meet Testalonga – one of the most exciting forces in the world of low-intervention winemaking today.
Run by Craig and Carla Hawkins in the Swartland region of South Africa, Testalonga has become a cult favorite among wine lovers who seek authenticity, drinkability, and expression over tradition. Their wines are raw, alive, and often unpredictable – in the best possible way.
Wine with attitude – but also depth
What first catches the eye are the playful, often quirky labels. But behind each striking design is a wine that tells a real story about place, farming, and philosophy. Testalonga’s wines are fermented with native yeasts, bottled without fining or filtration, and made with little to no added sulphur.
Craig Hawkins, once a winemaker at the established Lammershoek estate, broke away to follow his own path. He now works with organic, dry-farmed vineyards and growers who share his vision: let nature guide the process, not technology.
Chenin Blanc, but not like you know it
If there's a single grape that defines Testalonga, it's Chenin Blanc. But this is not the polished, oaky style you may know. Craig’s Chenins are textured, zippy, sometimes cloudy, and always full of tension and character.
He also experiments with other grapes like Grenache, Carignan, and Muscat, producing reds, rosés, and pet-nats that are both expressive and full of fun.
A few bottles to look out for
Testalonga 'El Bandito Skin Contact' Chenin Blanc
A standout orange wine with structure, depth and notes of dried apricot, rooibos tea, and wild herbs.Testalonga 'I Am the Ninja' Pet-Nat
Lively, bright, and slightly sparkling. A naturally fermented Chenin full of citrus, green apple, and good vibes.Testalonga 'Baby Bandito Keep on Punching'
Young-vine Chenin Blanc with precision and freshness. Crisp lemon, salty minerality, and vibrant energy.
The Baby Bandito range is especially eye-catching, with each label featuring a bold slogan – messages like “Stay Brave”, “Follow Your Dreams” or “Keep on Punching.” It’s wine that speaks to a younger audience without sacrificing seriousness in the glass.
