Op Die Berg Syrah

Enjoy with lamb’s liver, creamy mashed potatoes and a rich onion gravy or a lamb ragout with red peppers and olives.

High on the Witzenberg Moun-tain range in Ceres, at an altitude of 960 meters above sea level, this unique ‘appellation’ exhibits South Africa’s only truly continental climate with winter temperatures frequently dropping below freezing. The cooler night-time temperatures and hotter daytime temperatures during the growing season results in slower ripening and more concentrated fruit. Ceres fruit displays surprising cooler climate characteristics in comparison to other regions of the Western Cape. Well-drained, soft, yellow shale soils. In winter, the vineyard soil is often covered with a layer of snow which provides the perfect conditions for dormancy of the vines, a much-needed resting and recovery period before the growth season starts.

The wine was transferred to 2nd, 3d and 4th fill French Oak barrels for 12 months' maturation prior to blending and bottling.

Grapes were completely destemmed before being crushed. The wine was made using the aerated pump-over method in a closed tank with extended skin contact. Malolactic fermentation took place in stainless steel tanks.

De Grendel is a Durbanville wine estate where cool-climate vineyards and careful site selection shape a broad range of South African wines. Known for Sauvignon Blanc, Shiraz and red blends, the estate combines coastal influence, varietal clarity and a strong sense of Cape Town wine country.