WeeklySA_AdminPEDIGREE: The grape is the second most planted in the country, after Cabernet Sauvignon…
By Len Maseko
Day (August 21), the past few days since Monday must have been a blur of celebrations for glazed-eyed wine lovers passionate about the grape, toasting in homage to its magnificence. Still, for other Shiraz romantics, a weekend might just be more suitable when the mind is free from the demands of work and ready to breeze into cruise mode.
With its sweet and spicy nuances, Shiraz or Syrah has always been a firm favourite among consumers who enjoy a wide variety of styles of wines made from the noble cultivar. Whether one calls it Shiraz or Syrah, it is one and the same grape, depending on where in the world one is enjoying the glass of the wine at any given time. For example, the name Syrah is most likely to be used in countries like the United States and France, where the grape originates, except in Australia and South Africa, where grape is mostly referred to as Shiraz.
But it does not end there, of course, with those who prefer the name Syrah most likely to craft their wines in the mould of classic style, distinguishable by an understated palate and less fruity styles. Meanwhile, the Shiraz class of winemakers tend to produce bolder styles with upfront fruit – and thus ends the difference, though this distinction has not stopped South African winemakers also crafting wines in the classic style, and even labelling their offerings as Syrah.
For a variety of Shiraz or Syrah styles, look no further than the Shiraz Challenge for an eyebrow-raising experience of the depth and splendour of the class. This competition attracts both veterans and newcomers who produce wines in this category every year, and this year the winners were announced on August 17 – nicely timed to be closer to the National Shiraz Day (August 21).
During this time, it is tradition among Shiraz/Syrah wineries to organise celebrations to hype up interest in the grape as well as give a nod to its die-hard fans. For good measure, I tasted three expressions of Shiraz/Syrah just to breeze into the celebrations.
Zandvliet
With their first bottling of Shiraz in 1975, Zandvliet Wine Estate has carved a formidable reputation as the historic home of South African Shiraz, excelling in producing three expressions – the Estate (R150), Kalkveld and Hill of Enon (R525).
The Kalkveld range (literally translated as “limestone field”) hails from vineyards that grow on a hill that dominates the centre of the Zandvliet farm. The soils comprise a complex conglomerate of limestone, pebbles, and clay.
Enhancing the character of its wines are the daily south-easterly breezes that temper heat, ensuring optimal, slow-ripening of the fruit. Zandvliet Shiraz is invariably refined and elegant with classic Shiraz characteristics – thanks to years of tinkering and experience. Kalkveld Shiraz 2019 (R280) epitomises this experience and the winery’s long journey with the grape.
This wine is a showstopper with surprising maturity that belies its young age, projecting an opulent, understated palate that tantalises with finesse, balance and soft tannins as it opens up in a glass over time.
The range’s brown bottle, embellished by a metallic brown label, is an instant eye-catcher that should strike a love at first sight.
La Motte
In keeping with this tradition, La Motte cellarmaster Edmund Terblanche, who is chairman of Shiraz SA, headed for Jozi on a Shiraz/Syrah charm offensive, hosted at Rosebank’s classy Proud Mary Restaurant. For the rendezvous, he brought along as a welcome drink the deliciously complex La Motte Vin de Joie Rosé with its well-defined notes of nectarine, melon, rose petal. This following by pairings of La Motte Syrah Viognier 2018 (R320) with a duck dish; Syrah 2018 (R200) with ostrich and Syrah-based blend Hanneli R (R 400) as well as 2018 La Motte Méthode Cap Classique (R410) for the dessert. All the wines capped a unique tasting experience, replete with anecdotes that embody the sums of parts that contrive to make each wine magical.
Theuniskraal
One of Tulbagh’s best-known wine farms, Theuniskraal is one of South Africa’s foremost white-wine-producing farms for decades. It has been a family-owned enterprise since 1785.
One of the wines in the range is the Shiraz 2020, a gold medal recipient at the prestigious 2022 Gilbert & Gaillard International Challenge.
Winemaker Andries Jordaan Jnr, says the wine, which reflects a beautiful ruby red colour, displays aromas of prunes and cherries, with nuances of nut and oak spices. A medium-bodied wine, the palate delivers flavours of berries with oak spices, perfectly supported by soft tannins.
“The colder weather we are currently experiencing is ideally suited to the Theuniskraal Shiraz 2020, and its flavour profile is further enhanced when served with game, red meat or pasta dishes,” he says. The wine retails at R80 per bottle on the farm or at select outlets nationwide.
The Top 12 Shiraz of 2023
Anthonij Rupert Cape of Good Hope Riebeeksrivier Syrah 2018
Darling Cellars Gustus Shiraz 2021
De Grendel Op die Berg Syrah 2021
Dewaldt Heyns Weathered Hands Shiraz 2020
Diemersdal Syrah 2022
Fairview The Beacon Shiraz 2020
Flagstone Dark Horse Shiraz 2019
Groenland Syrah Premium 2018
Kleine Zalze Family Reserve Shiraz 2019
Stellenzicht Arenite Syrah 2019
Uva Mira The Mira Shiraz 2020
Wildeberg Red 2022
Best Food Pairings for Shiraz
Grilled meats: Shiraz is a classic pairing with grilled meats, such as steak, lamb chops, and pork tenderloin.
Braai: When you’re enjoying a classic braai, Shiraz is an excellent choice to pair with braai.
Spicy dishes: Shiraz can also be an excellent pairing for spicy dishes, such as curries or chili.
Stews and braises: For hearty, slow-cooked stews and braises, Shiraz can be a perfect match.
Dark chocolate: If you’re looking for a dessert pairing, Shiraz can be an unexpected but delightful match with dark chocolate.
Blue cheese: For a cheese pairing, Shiraz can be an excellent match for blue cheeses, such as Roquefort or Stilton. – Source: wine-ways.co.za
Published on the 113th Edition
