|
Syrah (Shiraz) is no doubt the popular red varietal of the moment. It seems to produce exceptional wines across the various growing areas within the Cape and has become a natural choice for both winemaker and consumer. There are now plenty of quality options to choose from, but some of the best come from ‘garagiste’ producers like Kleinood farm, which produces just over a thousand cases of their Tamboerskloof Syrah.
Owners, Gerard and Libby de Villers, are residents of Tamboerskloof, hence the name, but have a dream Stellenbosch property that neighbours prime names like Waterford and Stellenzicht. Gerard is an engineer that has worked on the construction of several large wineries, thus the progression to his own wine was perhaps inevitable.
This Syrah is a superb example of a wine that balances ripe, berry flavours with firm acidity and tannins. There is also a small percentage of Viognier in the wine, which is fermented along with the Syrah as it helps develop desirable floral aromas. The wine spends 14 months in French and American oak to develop flavours and structure. Though quite robust and peppery, it has a soft, refined mouthfeel that makes it difficult to stop at one glass.
Jean’s Thoughts
When the most prolific South African builder of wineries bought his own… results have to happen. Well this Syrah (besides the name) just did that. Only his second vintage but expectation-rich… Tannin, fruit, acidity –you name it, everything is there, even value for money.
Brendon’s Thoughts
A favourite drinking Syrah of mine, this garagiste wine has proved to be a favourite amongst the regulars. A superbly structured wine, and I love the label.
At Caveau: R170.
|
about 
