Shiraz

Any red meat dish, but especially venison.

The Shiraz – clones SH22 and SH20 – was harvested from 2 different blocks on Blaauwklippen and planted in Tukula and Villafonte. 7-wire Vertical Shoot Positioning (VSP) trellis system and drip irrigation are used. Annual yield ranges between 7 and 10 tons/ha.

The separate batches were matured for 18 months in barrels prior to blending and bottling. Only 2nd and 3rd fill barrels were used.

Hand-harvested grapes were transported to the cellar, destemmed immediately and whole berry fermentation commenced in French oak casks and stainless-steel tanks. Pump-overs twice a day ensured the delicate extraction of tannins. Prolonged skin contact of approximately 14 days were given after fermentation and before pressing. Malolactic fermentation followed in 225L and 300L French oak barrels.

Down to earth with a rich history and winemaking tradition, Blaauwklippen produces wines of distinction in harmony with the simplicity of country living. Shaped by centuries, people are at the heart of Blaauwklippen’s legacy that is shared in abundance with contemporary design and artisanal flair. In 1977 the first Zinfandel vineyards to be planted in South Africa were established on Blaauwklippen with the first vintage released in 1980. This pioneering spirit led us to produce world-class Zinfandel for decades and today we remain one of only three Zinfandel producers in the country. Launched in 1984, the Blaauwklippen Blending Competition is the only one of its kind in South Africa, aimed at consumers rather than producers, inviting wine-lovers to try out the art of wine blending for themselves. Narina Cloete has been the winemaker at Blaauwklippen since June 2016. She graduated with an Honours BSc Agriculture (Oenology) cum laude from the University of Stellenbosch. She serves on various wine judging panels including the South African Young Wine Show, FNB Top 10 Sauvignon Blanc, Cape Vintners Classification, Blaauwklippen Blending Competition, Veritas Awards and the Old Mutual Trophy Wine Show. She also judged in Spain at the 2018 Zarcillo International Wine Competition. The Blaauwklippen Family Market, held every Sunday, is a popular Winelands destination with an array of food, arts and crafts, live music, a monthly antiques fair and the estate’s child-friendly facilities and activities.