Kershaw GPS Klein River Syrah 2018

Kershaw Wines, established by renowned British-born Master of Wine Richard Kershaw, is celebrated for its precise, expressive, cool-climate wines from South Africa’s Elgin region and its surrounds. Richard’s meticulous, scientific approach, combined with a profound respect for terroir, produces sophisticated, elegant, and site-specific wines. His GPS (Grape Positioning System) series explores unique vineyard sites, each offering distinctive terroir-driven expressions. The Klein River Syrah 2018 is an exceptional example, showcasing Syrah’s elegance, complexity, and aromatic purity from this special vineyard in the cool maritime-influenced region near Stanford.

The Klein River vineyard benefits from sandstone- and shale-based soils enriched by mineral-rich river sediments, and a notably cooler climate moderated by proximity to the ocean. This terroir provides ideal conditions for slowly ripening Syrah, fostering vibrant acidity, refined tannins, and pronounced aromatic complexity. Meticulously hand-harvested grapes undergo gentle fermentation with native yeasts and careful ageing for around 16 months in French oak barrels (with minimal new oak), enhancing subtle complexity, structure, and texture while preserving the wine's inherent freshness and purity.

Appearance: Deep, bright ruby-red colour with subtle violet highlights at the rim, demonstrating youthful vibrancy and clarity. Medium viscosity coats the glass elegantly, showcasing slow-forming, refined tears.

Aroma: Expressive, complex aromas of ripe blackberry, dark cherry, and plum fruit mingle beautifully with layers of delicate spice, white pepper, and violets. Subtle notes of cured meat, lavender, and earthy minerality further enrich the aromatic complexity.

Taste: Elegantly structured palate with refined flavours of blackberry, dark cherry, and subtle raspberry, delicately complemented by nuances of black pepper, subtle spice, dried herbs, and gentle earthy undertones. Silky tannins and fresh acidity ensure remarkable harmony, finesse, and depth.

Finish: Long-lasting, polished finish, leaving lingering impressions of ripe dark fruits, gentle spice, floral notes, and mineral freshness. The wine’s refined tannins fade gracefully, leaving an enduring impression of elegance and sophistication.

Food Pairing: Superb alongside herb-crusted rack of lamb served with creamy potato gratin, or grilled venison accompanied by wild mushroom and thyme-infused jus.