Spier Wine Farm, Frans K Smit Red 2017

Spier is one of South Africa’s most historic and well-respected wineries, with a winemaking heritage dating back to 1692. Situated in Stellenbosch, the estate is known for its commitment to sustainability, ethical farming, and producing wines of exceptional quality. The Frans K. Smit range is named after Spier’s long-time Cellar Master and is the pinnacle of the winery’s portfolio, representing meticulous craftsmanship and the finest vineyard selection. The 2017 Frans K. Smit Red is a Bordeaux-style blend that embodies richness, complexity, and age-worthiness.

The grapes for this vintage were carefully selected from premium vineyards in Stellenbosch, known for their decomposed granite and clay soils that provide excellent structure and depth to the wine. Each variety was vinified separately in small batches, undergoing extended skin contact for maximum extraction. The wine was matured for 26 months in 60% new French oak barrels, adding layers of complexity and refinement. The 2017 vintage, regarded as one of Stellenbosch’s finest, benefited from cooler growing conditions that enhanced the wine’s balance and longevity.

Appearance: Deep, inky ruby with garnet reflections at the rim, showing signs of early maturity. The wine’s dense colour suggests richness and concentration, while slow, thick legs on the glass hint at its full-bodied nature. As the wine swirls, it clings to the glass, revealing its depth and structure. The transition from a nearly opaque core to a lighter, slightly brick-tinged rim indicates the beginning of its evolution, while its overall brilliance showcases the quality of careful cellaring and oak integration.

Aroma: Intensely aromatic, with layers of ripe blackcurrant, plum, and dark cherry. Secondary notes of cigar box, cedar, and graphite intertwine with hints of dark chocolate, vanilla, and baking spices from the extended oak maturation. A touch of dried herbs and earthiness adds depth and elegance.

Taste: Bold and structured, with an opulent core of black fruit—cassis, black cherry, and blueberry—framed by finely integrated oak. Silky yet firm tannins provide a refined grip, while subtle notes of espresso, tobacco, and crushed violets add complexity. The well-balanced acidity gives freshness, ensuring the wine remains vibrant despite its power.

Finish: Exceptionally long and layered, with lingering dark fruit, savoury spice, and a touch of minerality. The tannins are polished, offering a velvety texture that will soften further with ageing. Hints of mocha, black pepper, and pencil shavings emerge towards the end, leaving a lasting impression of elegance and finesse.

Food Pairing:
Slow-braised beef short ribs, where the wine’s rich fruit and structured tannins complement the dish’s deep, savoury flavours.
Lamb loin with rosemary and garlic, as the wine’s herbal nuances and fine acidity enhance the meat’s natural richness.