Kershaw Wines Klein River GPS Syrah 2019

Richard Kershaw is the undisputed master of the small, cool South African region of Elgin. He recently also began searching for interesting terroirs in the Elgin area. The exclusive GPS (Grape Positioning System) series is the exciting and impressive result.

For his GPS Syrah, Richard found exceptionally suitable vineyards in Klein River, a ward in the Overberg district. Until about twenty years ago, the area was primarily used for grazing sheep and growing grain. However, the combination of the rocky soil (called Glenrosa) and the relatively cool microclimate also proved to be ideal conditions for viticulture.

The grapes from the twenty-year-old vines are hand-picked and sorted. After a short maceration and spontaneous fermentation, the wine is aged for about 16 months in Burgundy oak barrels, some new and some used. The wine is bottled unfiltered to preserve as much flavor as possible.

It certainly achieved the latter. What an intense, concentrated red wine! Both refined and powerful, with dark cherry fruit, sweet spices, and black pepper. This rare Syrah is absolutely deserving of a hearty meat meal, like roast lamb or a nice piece of ribeye. Serve it in large glasses for the best experience.