Spier Wine Farm, Good Nature Organic Shiraz 2022

Spier Wine Farm, a historic and esteemed winery in South Africa's Stellenbosch region, has long been a leader in sustainable and organic winemaking practices. The Good Natured Organic Shiraz 2022 exemplifies this commitment, offering a wine crafted from organically grown grapes nurtured without artificial pesticides, fungicides, or fertilizers. The vineyards, established in 1996, thrive in the lime-rich red Karoo soils of the Olifantsrivier region, benefiting from minimal annual rainfall of 100mm to 150mm. This terroir imparts unique characteristics to the wine, reflecting the harmony between nature and viticulture.

Appearance: Rich ruby red with a deep, jewel-like vibrancy, showing youthful intensity. The wine’s clarity and brilliance highlight careful organic farming and minimal intervention in the winemaking process. Swirling the glass reveals slow-forming legs, suggesting a balanced structure and smooth, ripe tannins. The slight purple tinges at the rim hint at its freshness and ageing potential.

Aroma: Bold and fruit-driven, with ripe blackberry, dark plum, and mulberry at the forefront. Hints of black pepper, liquorice, and smoked earth add complexity, while subtle vanilla and cocoa notes from oak ageing provide warmth and depth. A touch of dried herbs and eucalyptus gives a fresh, lifted quality, enhancing the wine’s aromatic intensity.

Taste: On the palate, the red bramble fruit continues, offering flavours of ripe mulberry and plum. The wine is medium-bodied with a smooth texture, and the sweet spice notes add complexity, leading to a balanced and enjoyable tasting experience. Subtle notes of liquorice, cocoa, and cracked black pepper emerge as the wine develops in the glass, contributing to its depth.

Finish: Soft, smooth, and persistent, with lingering fruit flavours that evolve into a delicate spiciness. The gentle tannins provide a silky mouthfeel, while the fresh acidity ensures balance and a clean, refreshing aftertaste. Subtle hints of dark cherry, black pepper, and earthy undertones add layers to the finish, making each sip rewarding.

Food Pairing: This versatile Shiraz pairs well with a variety of dishes. It complements sausages, charcuterie, and tapas, where the wine's fruitiness and spice enhance the flavours of the food. Additionally, it pairs beautifully with a Greek-style roast chicken salad featuring roasted vegetables, feta, red onion, and olives, as the wine's profile harmonizes with the dish's Mediterranean flavours. For a vegetarian option, grilled aubergine with smoky paprika and tahini dressing brings out the wine’s warm spice notes.

The Good Natured Organic Shiraz 2022 not only offers a delightful sensory experience but also reflects Spier's dedication to environmental stewardship and organic winemaking. This wine is an excellent choice for those seeking quality and sustainability in their wine selection, delivering both elegance and drinkability.