KYSELA PERE ET FILS, LTD.

Twenty years ago, the first Syrah vines were planted in what is now one of the smallest wine wards in South Africa, Klein River. Traditionally used for sheep and wheat, 3 ha of virgin shale-derived Glenrosa soil was set aside for Syrah. These soils are normally the hallmark of warmer areas, but these vines nestle up against the Klein River Mountain range. The nearby Akkedis Valley provides a portal through which the cool sea breezes from the nearby Walker Bay penetrate, creating a mild meso-climate in summer.

Wines made from these vines have consistently won acclaim and awards, so Richard Kershaw did not think twice when the opportunity to make wine from these 20-year-old vines came his way.

Restrained, yet with intent and subtle power, this vineyard exhibits high levels of rotundone producing piercing black pepper, powdery tannins complete with rich textures and a prodigious breadth of black-orientated fruit. The wine is deep magenta red, the nose evokes garrigue elements: wild lavender, citrus, and crushed black peppercorns. Enchantingly supple and sinuous palate with succulent, mouth-watering acidity the wine is already integrated with a delicate balance of bitter chocolate, powdery tannins, and juicy fruit: cinnamon, black raspberry, Chinese 5 spice, orange peel and hung game. Excellent long-lasting finish.