Elegant Old Vine Grenache from the Piekenierskloof Plateau

The 2023 Piekenierskloof Grenache Noir is a vibrant and expressive South African red wine made from 100% Grenache Noir grown on old bush vine vineyards in the high-altitude Piekenierskloof region.

This elegant Grenache displays abundant red raspberry and cherry flavours, complemented by delicate hints of aniseed and cumin spice. The wine is beautifully balanced with lively freshness and a refined tannin structure, creating a versatile red wine that pairs easily with a wide range of dishes.

Approachable yet complex, this is a classic example of cool-climate South African Grenache with purity of fruit and subtle oak influence.

Wine Overview

Producer: Piekenierskloof Wine Company
Vintage: 2023
Country: South Africa
Region: Piekenierskloof
Grape Variety: 100% Grenache Noir

Alcohol: 13.5%
Residual Sugar: 3.6 g/L
Total Acidity: 6.0 g/L
pH: 3.44

Serving Temperature: 14–16°C
Cellaring Potential: 5–8 years

Tasting Notes

Aromas

Expressive aromas of fresh raspberries, red cherries and subtle spice, with hints of aniseed and cumin.

Palate

Juicy and vibrant with layered red berry fruit, soft spice and elegant structure.

Finish

A lively and balanced finish with fine tannins and refreshing acidity, giving the wine complexity and length.

Food Pairing

The bright fruit and balanced structure make this Grenache a very food-friendly wine.

Perfect with:

• Seafood dishes

• Sushi and grilled fish

• Pizza and pasta

• Roast chicken and poultry

• Mediterranean cuisine

Its fresh and elegant style makes it a versatile red wine for both casual dining and refined meals.

Vineyard & Terroir – Piekenierskloof

The grapes are sourced from vineyards planted in 1973 in the Piekenierskloof region. These vineyards consist of dryland bush vines growing on sandy loam soils.

The vines are meticulously farmed and produce low yields of less than 5 tons per hectare, resulting in concentrated fruit and balanced structure.

Located in the Citrusdal Mountains about 50 kilometers north of Swartland, the Piekenierskloof plateau sits at approximately 750 meters above sea level. Warm sunny days combined with cool nights allow grapes to ripen slowly while preserving freshness and aromatic complexity.

Many vineyards in the region are old ungrafted bush vines planted since the 1960s, which contribute depth and character to the wines produced by Piekenierskloof Wine Company.

Winemaking

The grapes are hand-harvested and undergo a 24-hour cold soak to extract colour and aromatic intensity.

Fermentation takes place with selected yeast strains at controlled temperatures below 22°C, with regular pump-overs and gentle oxygen exposure to enhance structure and flavour development.

Malolactic fermentation is carried out simultaneously with alcoholic fermentation through co-inoculation, ensuring a smooth and integrated wine.

The wine is then matured for 10 months in older 300L and 500L French oak barrels, adding subtle complexity while allowing the fruit character to remain the focus.

Awards & Recognition

Previous vintages of Piekenierskloof Grenache Noir have received strong international recognition:

• Decanter World Wine Awards – 89 points

• Michelangelo International Wine Awards – Gold Medal

• Prescient Grenache Report – Top 10

• Tim Atkin South Africa Report – 90 points

These awards highlight the consistent quality and reputation of Piekenierskloof Grenache Noir.

Why Choose Piekenierskloof Grenache Noir?

• Made from old bush vine vineyards planted in 1973

• Grown at high altitude (750m) for freshness and elegance

• Matured 10 months in French oak barrels

• Bright red fruit with spice and refined tannins

• Highly food-friendly Grenache

FAQ – Piekenierskloof Grenache Noir