Description
This South African wine from the western cape is deep burgundy in color with inviting aromas of vanilla and mocha. The palate rewards with lingering flavors of liquorice and ripe black cherries, supported by soft tannins and a long finish. Aged for 8 months in a combination of French and American oak. Pairs with red meat, pork, and duck. 88% Syrah and 12% Petit Verdot.
Excelsior Estate was founded in 1859, when Koos De Wet settled there and immediately began cultivating the land with grapevines. Koos became one of the first winemakers in Cape Town. He later divided the farm among his sons, some of whom planted more vineyards, others bred horses, and another still took to ostrich breeding, attempting to cash in on the high fashion of ostrich feathers in the early twentieth century! When ostrich feathers fell out of fashion, the family reigned in their efforts, focusing solely on horse breeding and winemaking. Today Peter De Wet is in charge, managing the 220 hectares of vines planted to Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Shiraz, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon. This Shiraz comes from well drained lime rich land on which the De Wets once raised their horses.
