Description
Vineyard
The fruit for Spice Route Malabar 2015 comes from dryland vineyards in the Swartland. Shiraz, planted in 2001, grows on oakleaf and koffieklip soils. Mourvèdre and Petite Sirah, planted in 2002, thrive mainly on oakleaf soils. Meanwhile, Grenache, planted in 2006, is rooted in decomposed granite. These diverse soils and vine ages complement one another, creating a blend of 50% Syrah, 25% Mourvèdre, 17% Grenache, and 8% Petite Sirah. In addition, the unirrigated conditions deliver small, concentrated berries that add intensity to the final wine.
Tasting Notes
Spice Route Malabar 2015 opens with perfumed aromas of violets, plum, charcuterie spice, and cocoa. On the palate, dense black fruit combines with spice and supple tannins. Fresh acidity lifts the wine, giving structure and elegance. Therefore, this vintage balances power with refinement, making it both expressive and age-worthy.
Winemaker’s Comment
According to winemaker Charl du Plessis, the generous winter rainfall of 2015 allowed careful selection of each fruit parcel. This resulted in a wine with an integrated palate, opulent tannins, and a balanced mouthfeel. He notes that the Malabar has the ability to age another decade. In addition, only 12 barrels were produced, making it an extremely limited release.
Food Pairing
This wine pairs beautifully with slow-roasted lamb. Alternatively, enjoy it with a charcuterie-style tapas selection, where the savoury meats and spice echo the complexity of the blend.
Cellar Potential
Spice Route Malabar 2015 is already showing depth and integration, but it will continue to develop over the next 10 years, rewarding patience with even greater complexity.
Harvest Date
Mid-March 2015.
