A subtle floral hint lifts the rich nose of fruitcake, blackberries, herbs, and peppery spice. Ripe, soft-textured and juicy black fruit is the first flavour in the mouth. Vibrant spice – nutmeg, pepper and cinnamon – then makes its presence felt, followed by a creamy oak note. The wood, which is harmoniously knit with the fruit and fresh acid, lends both stature and frame without taking over or dominating. Deeply rewarding with a rounded mouthfeel and a long, elegant tail. Genteel and refined
variety : Shiraz [ 100% Syrah ]
winemaker : Dawie Botha
wine of origin : Western Cape
analysis : alc : 14 % vol rs : 2.8 g/l pH : 3.38 ta : 6.1 g/l
type : Red style : Dry body : Full wooded
pack : Bottle size : 750ml closure : Cork
in the vineyard : The 2021 vintage in Franschhoek was shaped by a cool, slow-developing season. Winter brought good rainfall and consistently cold temperatures, ensuring proper vine dormancy and replenished soil moisture. These conditions continued into spring, delaying budburst and flowering, but contributing to even development and reduced disease pressure. Summer remained moderate with minimal heat spikes. February, usually the warmest month, was cooler than average, extending the ripening window. This slower pace allowed for gradual phenolic development and excellent acid retention. Syrah from the 2021 harvest shows lifted aromatics, fine tannin structure, and bright natural acidity. The wines are precise and layered, with purity of fruit and strong ageing potential.
in the cellar : Each berry was carefully sorted by an optical sorter, so only the best entered the fermentation vessels. Fermentation took place in both stainless steel and concrete tanks to bring out the distinct characteristics of the Syrah. Once fermentation was complete, the wine was pressed and immediately transferred to barrels, where malolactic fermentation takes place. For added depth, we kept the wine on the gross lees for about six months before racking it off and returning it to barrels for further aging. Maturation occurred in 225L French oak barriques, with a small portion in new oak, adding layers of complexity and a hint of smokiness.
Only 31 barriques were produced for the 2020 vintage