This wine is made from
100% Shiraz/Syrah grapes grown in the Stellenbosch region of the Western Cape, South Africa. The vineyard sites tend to combine warm daytime heat with cooler nights, allowing for ripe fruit development without losing freshness. Winemaking often involves aging in French and/or American oak barrels, which adds complexity via spice, vanilla, and smoky undertones. The style aims for a balance between fruit intensity and savoury depth, avoiding overripe "jammy" extremes.
Tasting Notes:
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Appearance: Deep ruby to purple-tinged red; saturated colour with good clarity.
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Aroma: Rich aromas of dark berries (blackberry, plum), often layered with pepper spice, cloves, sometimes floral hints (violets/lavender), and subtle oak (vanilla, smoke).
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Palate: Full-bodied; juicy dark fruit flavours (plum, mulberry, sometimes blueberry) combined with savoury spice (pepper, cloves), medium to firm tannins, balanced acidity, oak influence giving vanilla or toast notes.
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Finish: Lingering and warm; the spice and oak taper off to a savoury finale with fruit echoes. Probably dry, with moderate to long persistence.
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ABV: Typically around 14–15%.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve at about 16-18 °C. Decanting young bottles helps with opening up aromas. Pairs beautifully with grilled or roasted red meats (lamb, beef, game), rich stews, bbq, or spicy dishes. Also works well with mature hard cheeses.