Syrah “Winemakers Collection” 2022 – Swartland Winery

The grapes to produce Syrah “Winemakers Collection” Swartland Winery were harvested at optimal phenolic ripeness. Fermentation took place at 26°C and lasted for seven days, with pump-overs and aeration every four hours. Following fermentation the wine was drained and the grapes were pressed. Malolactic fermentation took place, softening the resulting wine. Syrah “Winemakers Collection” Swartland Winery was filtered and stored in stainless steel tank until bottling, retaining the pure fruit character.

The Swartland name originates from a description of the indigenous “renosterbos” or rhino bush, which appears to turn black, (“Swart” in Afrikaans), during the summer months. This hot, dry climate has an average temperature range of 25°C to 35°C and an annual rainfall of 450 mm and 600mm, but the altitude of these vineyards creates a cool oasis in this arid landscape. Minimal intervention and environmentally friendly farming practices are paramount. Sowing cover crops between the vines provides protection from the winter rains and also maintains the valuable mineral content, nutrients and moisture during the hot summers. 80% of the vineyards are small bush vines with an average yield of six tonnes per hectare; the quality of fruit is exceptional. The soil types vary, but Malmesbury Shale dominates, with small patches of granite and Table Mountain sandstone.