Some of the best Syrah’s in the country are coming out of the Polkadraai ward and yet getting our hands on great examples proves difficult. Staanspoor was our latest discovery from that region last year and remains a hidden gem. I revisited my notes after tasting the 2023 a few weeks ago and all I kept writing was ‘wow, so delicious, with Northern Rhône spice and Polkadraai fruit & structure’ – I think it’s safe to say that as a Syrah lover this will be a favourite for you too!
This vintage hails from a vineyard planted in 1994 on the renowned Karibib farm, just above the Reyneke winery. Some heavy hitters also source their fruit from this parcel and we think it’s super special. It showcases the best of what Syrah lovers crave from tannins that are refined, offering structure without overwhelming the palate to layers of red berries, dried fynbos and olive tapenade underscored by the earthy complexity and a touch of spiciness that adds depth. The 2023 from Staanspoor is delicious and salty with a real cool climate pull to it.
At the heart of every great wine lies a story, and Staanspoor Syrah is no exception. The name ‘Staanspoor’ meaning ‘departure point’ in Afrikaans, is a reflection of the shared journey of Pierre Puren, Pieter Vermaak, and winemaker Angus Paul. Their friendship, born from a passion for wine, has led to this moment—2022 was their first collaboration and the launch of something truly special. 2023 proves they’re on the right track.
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Tasting Notes:
‘An incredibly attractive aromatics packed full of sweet black and blue berry fruits with hints of black olive tapenade, black peppercorns, salty black currant, incense, and warming Christmas spices. The palate is rich but vibrant, tightly packed with saline black berry fruits, oyster shell and hints of nori seaweed nuances. The frame is chiselled and taut, sleek and notably mineral with a fine vein of granitic spice and maritime salinity on the finish. A very classy, old world Northern Rhone lookalike that’s absolutely delicious. Drink now to 2035+.’ – Greg Sherwood MW, 95/100
