Syrah “Bush Vines” 2020 – Swartland Winery

The berries to produce Syrah “Bush Vines” Swartland Winery were harvested at optimal phenolic ripeness and then fermented at temperatures of between 24°C to 26°C. Pump overs and aeration took place during the first half of the fermentation, which gradually became shorter in frequency and duration. 0.5 grams per litre of oak was added during the fermentation and extended skin contact was applied after fermentation. Syrah “Bush Vines” Swartland Winery was aged in 1st, 2nd and 3rd fill French oak, medium toast barrels for 12 months. The Swartland name originates from a description of the indigenous “renosterbos” or rhino bush, which appears to turn black, (“Swart” in Afrikaans), during the summer months. This hot, dry climate has an average temperature range of 25°C to 35°C and an annual rainfall of 450 mm and 600mm, but the altitude of these vineyards creates a cool oasis in this arid landscape. Minimal intervention and environmentally friendly farming practices are paramount. 80% of the vineyards are small bush vines with an average yield of six tonnes per hectare; the quality of fruit is exceptional. The grapes for this wine came from a single vineyard of 100% bush vines with an age range of between 25 years to 40 years, which are grown at 300 metres above sealevel.