Cape of Good Hope Syrah Riebeeksrivier 2021
Cape of Good Hope Syrah Riebeeksrivier 2021
Manufacturer: Cape of Good Hope
A complex and elegant Syrah with a classic spicy profile and refined tannin structure. The nose is dominated by ripe plum and black cherry aromas, complemented by dried herbs, olive notes, and subtle spice with a hint of fynbos character. On the palate, the wine is juicy and well-balanced, with well-integrated acidity providing freshness and supporting the structure. The full-bodied profile is harmonious, with smooth, polished tannins and delicate notes of cocoa and oak derived from barrel ageing. There is good concentration and a subtle mineral edge. The finish is long and persistent, showing layers of dark fruit, spice, and a gently earthy character. The wine has promising ageing potential.
2021 / 0.75l / 13.5% / Swartland - South Africa
About the Winery
In 2006, Johann Rupert (owner of the L'Ormarins and Anthony Rupert winery) started a search for all vineyards in South Africa over 35 years old. The South African wine industry has traditionally depended on yields, which meant that the lower yields of older vineyards forced their removal. What was left behind were quite spectacular pockets of vines, tended by people who maintained them either out of sentiment or prudence.
Wine from old vines guarantees intensity, structure and a real sense of place. Their preservation is an act of social responsibility towards South African wine and the people who have invested in them despite adversity. Johann later became the patron of the Old Vines project, which brings together under one umbrella the producers of wines specifically from old vineyards.
Terroir
Swartland, located about 65 kilometres north of Cape Town in South Africa's Western Cape, is famous for its grape growing. The climate in this area is extremely hot and dry, conditions that local winegrowers cleverly exploit to the benefit of their vineyards. In the driest and most extreme parts of the region, vineyards are planted in the drought-resistant 'bush vine' style. The basic soil in the Swartland is the Malmesbury slate, named after the town of Malmesbury, which lies at the heart of the region. Here, the vines dig their roots deep into the soil to access the water supply, resulting in stronger vines and grapes with highly concentrated flavours.
The name Swartland, which means 'black earth' in Afrikaans, is derived from the local renosterbos, or black rhino bush, which turns black after the rains. The key varieties grown here are Chenin Blanc and Shiraz, but Grenache and Mourvedre are now also becoming important in the region, along with plenty of other Italian and Portuguese varieties.
Recommended wine pairings
Cape of Good Hope Syrah Riebeeksrivier 2021