Syrah 2007

These limited release wines demonstrate the distinctiveness of specific vineyard sites and represent our finest quality. The Jonkershoek Valley and more specifically the south facing slopes are of the coolest sites in Stellenbosch.

Vintage conditions

Cold and wet winter conditions and a relatively warm and dry summer resulted in good and even budding. Harvest commenced on 4 March. Grapes were harvested at 26.0 °B with a total acid of 7.5 g/l and a pH of 3.25.

The vineyards

Well established trellised vineyards planted on a northwest facing slope on well-drained decomposed granite soils. These vineyards have access to supplementary irrigation.

Grape variety

100% Syrah.

Winemaking

Fermentation was initiated in open top fermenters.

The crushed grapes underwent a series of pump overs and punching after which the wine was racked off to tank and barrel to complete alcoholic fermentation. Malolactic fermentation took place in barrels. Further maceration before drawing off and light pressing. This wine spent 18 months in 100% new French oak barrels.

Bottled in January 2008.

Alcohol: 13.5%
Residual Sugar: 1.9 g/l
Total Acid: 5.3 g/l
pH: 3.79

Tasting notes

Deep red purple. Aromas of spice, white and black pepper. Blackberry fruit and hints of violets. Concentrated palate with complex array of juicy blackberry fruit, underlying spice and very fine tannins.