WeeklySA_AdminDISTINCT: From the polished power of Kruger Family Reserve to the velvety richness of KFK and the mature elegance of Stellenview Reserve, three acclaimed wines reveal the remarkable range of Shiraz grown in Stellenbosch’s Devon Valley…
By Len Maseko
Seven Days of Shiraz may have occupied only one week – from August 21 to 17 – on the wine calendar, but Stellenview’s variety of the genre offers enough depth, personality and stylistic range to keep enthusiasts exploring throughout the year.
Someone once said: “Wine, like people, relies on a good first impression. But longevity requires structure”.
So too first impressions encounters are created between a first timer and unfamiliar wine label, often to leave an indelible mark on the palate and a spark in the memory that often lingers for time immemorial.
From the very moment the trio of Stellenview Premium Wines landed on my doorway, my curiosity instantly peaked. Three award-winning expressions of Shiraz, they turned out – all to mark the annual celebration of Shiraz that happens this time of the year.
Shaped by the soils, slopes and maritime influence of Stellenbosch’s picturesque Devon Valley, this bit of introduction served to heighten expectation in anticipation of three for joy wrapped in liquid joy. Imagination would soon give way to proof.
As it would be, the first sip, although united by the same celebrated grape, the wines presented distinctly different interpretations of Shiraz.
Devon Valley lies less than 20km from the False Bay coast, allowing cool summer sea breezes to moderate temperatures and help grapes retain freshness as they ripen. Deep granitic soils, complemented by a band of shale in the valley’s northern reaches, provide favourable conditions for producing concentrated red wines.
At the pinnacle of Stellenview’s portfolio is the Kruger Family Reserve Shiraz 2022, an assured and finely structured wine created with longevity in mind.
Maturation in small French oak barrels for up to 18 months gives the wine depth without overwhelming its fruit.
Concentrated blackberry and plum flavours are joined by black pepper, liquorice and warming spice before a long, composed finish.
Its combination of power and restraint earned it 90 points at the 2026 Decanter World Wine Awards and 91 points from the Gilbert & Gaillard International Challenge.
This is the bottle to place alongside slow-roasted lamb, a generous beef dish or an unhurried winter dinner. While already expressive, its structure suggests that patient cellaring should reveal further complexity.
The KFK Kenzo Faure Kruger Reserve Shiraz 2021 brings a more personal dimension to the collection. Winemaker Reino Kruger created it as a legacy wine for his son, Kenzo Faure Kruger, and that sense of care is evident in its considered composition.
After spending between 14 and 16 months in French oak, the wine presents ripe mulberry, savoury nuances and cracked black pepper. Its velvety palate and well-integrated tannins make it generous without becoming heavy.
The KFK occupies a compelling middle ground: polished enough for a special occasion, yet welcoming enough to enjoy at a relaxed dinner. Its ripe fruit and savoury character should work particularly well with flame-grilled steak, venison or a hearty mushroom dish.
Its impressive awards record includes Double Gold at the 2025 Vitis Vinifera Awards and the Gilbert & Gaillard International Challenge, a Gold Medal at the Michelangelo International Wine & Spirits Awards, 92 points at the International Wine & Spirits Awards and 90 points in the 2025 Winemag Prescient Shiraz Report.
Completing the trio is the Stellenview Reserve Shiraz 2017, which demonstrates how gracefully a well-made Stellenbosch Shiraz can develop with age. Dark berry fruit remains at its core, accompanied by restrained spice and savoury layers. Refined tannins and measured balance give it an elegance that distinguishes it from more forceful expressions of the variety.
The 2017 vintage is the contemplative wine of the selection — a mature, harmonious Shiraz suited to slow enjoyment, perhaps beside a fire or with mature cheese after dinner.
Its pedigree is underlined by a Gold Medal and 95 points at the Decanter World Wine Awards, together with Gold Medals at the 2021 and 2022 Michelangelo International Wine & Spirits Awards.
Taken together, the three wines show why Shiraz remains one of South Africa’s most compelling red varieties. The Kruger Family Reserve 2022 supplies youthful concentration and finesse; the KFK 2021 offers plush fruit and a personal legacy; and the Stellenview Reserve 2017 brings the rewards of maturity.
They also demonstrate that Shiraz cannot be confined to a single description. It may be bold or restrained, fruit-driven or savoury, immediately inviting or structured for further ageing.
Seven Days of Shiraz provides the occasion, but Stellenview’s trio supplies the stronger argument: this is a grape whose diversity deserves attention well beyond seven days.
EVENTS
BenVino pours into Benoni
Wine lovers can look forward to a day of fine pours, food and entertainment when the popular BenVino Wine Festival returns to Benoni on Saturday, September 5.
Hosted at 114 on Waterhouse in Benoni North, the festival will offer unlimited tastings of more than 250 wines from 26 leading South African estates, including 13 newcomers to the event.
The Cape winelands-inspired venue features rolling lawns, water features, lush gardens and a spacious thatched tasting room. Guests can also enjoy craft food stalls, pre-ordered Harvester platters, wine games, merchandise and live performances by Rewind, duo Les and Bryan, and a new artist.
More than R20 000 in lucky-draw prizes will be up for grabs.
The festival starts at 10am. General-access tickets cost R285, while VIP admission is R775 for one person or R1 350 for two. Secure off-site parking and a limited children’s activity area will be available.
SA’S FINEST WINES ON SHOW
Johannesburg wine lovers will have a rare opportunity to taste some of the country’s most highly rated wines when the Tim Atkin SA Wines of the Year Showcase comes to Houghton Estate on September 3.
Hosted at Strauss & Co in Central Street, the walk-around tasting will feature more than 200 exceptional wines awarded scores of 95 points or higher in the 2026 Tim Atkin MW SA Special Report.
Now in its 14th year, the influential annual report celebrates South Africa’s leading winemakers, vineyards and wine regions. The Johannesburg showcase follows the official launch of the report at the Norval Foundation in Tokai, Cape Town, on August 31.
Guests will have an opportunity to meet British Master of Wine and internationally respected critic Tim Atkin, while tasting his selection of Wines of the Year and engaging with some of the producers behind the celebrated labels.
More than a showcase of top-scoring wines, the event promises to highlight the people, places and stories shaping South Africa’s increasingly acclaimed wine industry.
Tickets cost from R950 per person and include a complimentary Gabriel-Glas wine glass for guests to take home. The event runs from 4pm to 8pm at Strauss & Co, 89 Central Street, Houghton Estate, Johannesburg.
Erinvale uncorks spring series
Wine lovers can explore South Africa’s most distinctive estates when Erinvale Estate Hotel & Spa presents three Wine Society evenings during spring and early summer.
Hosted monthly at Magnolia Social Dining Lounge in Somerset West, the intimate gatherings pair fine wine, food and conversation in the scenic surrounds of the Helderberg. Presenter Nick Plummer and Erinvale’s culinary team guide guests through up to 10 wines from three featured producers, accompanied by a specially created menu and dessert.
The next evening, on September 17, will showcase Barton Vineyards of Bot River, Swartland’s Kloovenburg Wine & Olive Estate and boutique natural-wine producer (L)equinox Wines.
On October 29, the spotlight turns to Eenzaamheid Wines of Agter-Paarl, Lemberg Wine Estate from Tulbagh and Stellenbosch producer Anura Vineyards.
The final gathering on November 26 will feature Wellington’s Doolhof Wine Estate, Aslina Wines — founded by acclaimed winemaker Ntsiki Biyela — and cool-climate specialist Mellish Family Vineyards.
Tickets cost R495 a person. Attendance is limited to 35 guests, making advance booking essential. Reservations can be made by emailing hotel@erinvale.co.za. The series offers enthusiasts an accessible opportunity to meet winemakers, broaden their palates and enjoy considered food pairings in one of the Cape Winelands’ most inviting settings.
Chardonnay & Pinot Noir Fest
Wine Concepts will host its 14th annual Chardonnay & Pinot Noir Celebration at Moyo Restaurant, Kirstenbosch, on September 10, from 6pm to 9pm.
Forty leading Cape wine producers will showcase more than 100 premium and flagship Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs, offering enthusiasts an opportunity to explore the distinctive styles and flavours of these noble Burgundian varieties.
Moyo’s chefs will serve a selection of snacks specially chosen to complement the wines, while fairy lights and a roaring fire will create a warm, convivial atmosphere.
Tickets cost R480 per person, including admission, wine tastings and snacks.
All showcased wines will also be available to order at discounted prices during the evening. Tickets are available through Quicket, at Wine Concepts branches, or at the door subject to availability. Enquiries: 021 671 9030, 021 426 4401 or newlandshop@wineconcepts.co.za. – Compiled by Len Maseko: lenmaseko@weeklysamirror.n
