Spicy and Elegant Shiraz from the Piekenierskloof Plateau

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

This wine reveals an inviting bouquet of warm spices, violets and liquorice, layered with lush dark fruit flavours. The palate is smooth and structured with velvety tannins and beautifully integrated oak, creating a refined Shiraz with depth and elegance.

Well-balanced and complex, the wine finishes long and sophisticated, making it an excellent choice for lovers of powerful yet elegant red wines.

Wine Overview

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

Alcohol: 13.0%
Residual Sugar: 3.4 g/L
Total Acidity: 5.5 g/L
pH: 3.50

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

Tasting Notes

Aromas

Expressive aromas of violets, warm spices and liquorice, complemented by rich dark fruit.

Palate

Full and elegant with flavours of blackberries, plum and spice, supported by velvety tannins and subtle oak influence.

Finish

Long, refined and balanced with structured dry tannins and lingering complexity.

Food Pairing

The structure and spice of this Shiraz make it a perfect partner for rich meat dishes.

Excellent with:

• Lamb stews

• Grilled lamb or lamb chops

• Kudu fillet and game meat

• Slow-cooked beef dishes

• Barbecue and grilled meats

The wine’s spice and tannin structure complement intense flavours and rich sauces.

Vineyard & Terroir – Piekenierskloof

The grapes are sourced from dryland bush vine vineyards in the Piekenierskloof region, growing on sandy loam soils.

These vineyards are carefully farmed and produce low yields of less than 5 tons per hectare, ensuring 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. The combination of warm days and cool nights allows grapes to ripen slowly while preserving freshness and developing complex flavours.

Many vineyards in this region consist of old ungrafted bush vines planted since the 1960s, contributing character and depth to the wines of Piekenierskloof Wine Company.

Winemaking

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

Fermentation is carried out with selected yeast strains at controlled temperatures below 26°C to preserve the wine’s fruit and spice character. Malolactic fermentation takes place in tank to soften the structure and enhance balance.

The wine is then matured for 12 months in French oak barrels, consisting of 25% new oak and 75% older 300-liter barrels, adding subtle complexity and texture.

Awards & Recognition

Previous vintages of Piekenierskloof Shiraz have received strong international recognition:

• Platter’s South African Wine Guide – 4 Stars

• Tim Atkin South Africa Report – 92 Points

These accolades highlight the consistent quality and reputation of Piekenierskloof Shiraz.

Why Choose Piekenierskloof Shiraz?

• Made from high-altitude bush vine vineyards

• Matured 12 months in French oak barrels

• Elegant balance of dark fruit, spice and floral notes

• Excellent ageing potential of 8–10 years

• Perfect with lamb, game and rich meat dishes

FAQ – Piekenierskloof Shiraz