A Complex Red Blend from the Piekenierskloof Plateau

The 2024 Piekenierskloof Heirloom Red is a beautifully layered South African red blend that captures the character of the Piekenierskloof plateau. Crafted from a harmonious combination of Shiraz, Grenache, Mourvèdre and Cinsault, this wine highlights the depth and elegance that old bush vine vineyards can produce.

The wine offers an aromatic profile of hibiscus, dark berries, violets and ripe prunes, supported by warm spices, liquorice and subtle herbal notes reminiscent of rooibos tea. On the palate it is full-bodied yet refined, with seamlessly integrated tannins and a long, elegant finish.

Balanced, expressive and versatile, the Heirloom Red is a sophisticated blend that showcases the strength of Rhône-style varieties grown in South Africa.

Wine Overview

Producer: Piekenierskloof Wine Company
Vintage: 2024
Country: South Africa
Region: Piekenierskloof

Blend Composition

• Shiraz – 43%

• Grenache – 25%

• Mourvèdre – 23%

• Cinsault – 9%

Alcohol: 13.5%
Residual Sugar: 3.1 g/L
Total Acidity: 5.5 g/L
pH: 3.5

Serving Temperature: 16–18°C
Cellaring Potential: 8–10 years

Tasting Notes

Aromas

Complex aromas of hibiscus, violets and dark berries, layered with notes of prune, warm spice, liquorice and rooibos tea.

Palate

Full-bodied and structured with vibrant dark fruit, spice and beautifully integrated tannins.

Finish

Long and refined with elegant balance and lingering complexity.

Food Pairing

The versatility of this Rhône-style blend makes it an excellent companion for a wide range of dishes.

Perfect with:

• Charcuterie and aged cheeses

• Roast chicken or turkey

• Pork belly

• Lamb meatballs

• Garlic sausages

• Grilled lamb

Its layered structure makes it a wine that pairs well with both casual meals and more refined dishes.

Vineyard & Terroir – Piekenierskloof

The grapes originate from old bush vine vineyards on the Piekenierskloof plateau, located in the Citrusdal Mountains about 50 kilometers north of Swartland.

These dryland vineyards grow on their own roots, producing grapes with exceptional concentration and character. The vines thrive in sandy loam soils and benefit from the region’s unique climate.

Situated at approximately 750 meters above sea level, the plateau experiences warm days and cool nights. This temperature variation allows grapes to ripen slowly while preserving freshness and developing complex flavours.

Many of the vineyards consist of ungrafted bush vines planted since the 1960s, contributing depth and authenticity to the wines of Piekenierskloof Wine Company.

The 2024 Vintage

The 2024 harvest season experienced heavy winter rainfall and windy conditions during flowering. The growing season continued with optimal ripening temperatures and a drier summer period.

These conditions created additional concentration and complexity in the grapes, particularly in the dryland bush vine vineyards, which once again produced exceptional fruit.

Winemaking

Each grape variety was harvested and fermented separately to preserve its individual character.

After malolactic fermentation, the wines were matured in 300-liter French oak barrels, consisting of:

• 25% new oak

• 30% second-fill barrels

• the remainder third- and fourth-fill barrels

The wines matured for 10 months in barrel. After ageing, the individual barrels were carefully tasted and blended to create a harmonious final wine that highlights the strengths of each varietal.

Awards & Recognition

Previous vintages of Piekenierskloof Heirloom Red have received strong international recognition:

• Platter’s South African Wine Guide – 4 Stars

• International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC) – Gold Medal

• Tim Atkin South Africa Report – 91 Points

These awards underline the consistent quality and reputation of the Heirloom range.

Why Choose Piekenierskloof Heirloom Red?

• Rhône-style blend of Shiraz, Grenache, Mourvèdre and Cinsault

• Produced from high-altitude bush vine vineyards

• Matured in French oak barrels for 10 months

• Complex layers of dark fruit, spice and floral notes

• Excellent ageing potential of 8–10 years

FAQ – Piekenierskloof Heirloom Red