Porseleinberg Syrah

Tasting Note Porseleinberg Syrah

"One of the most sought-after Syrahs in the Southern Hemisphere. Loved by collectors and awarded by international wine critics."

A deeply concentrated Syrah with aromas of blackcurrant, blackberry, violet, black olive, white pepper, and smoked herbs. Additionally, notes of graphite, granite, tobacco, and a subtle earthy minerality emerge. Despite its power, the wine remains remarkably fresh, with refined tannins, vibrant acidity, and an exceptionally long, complex finish. It is best to decant the wine for an hour.

Aging Potential

Already impressive, but can easily age for 15 to 25 years under good conditions. It is best to truly open the wine only after five to eight years.

Wine & Food Pairing

This Porseleinberg Syrah is a deeply concentrated Syrah with aromas of blackcurrant, blackberry, violet, black olive, white pepper, and smoked herbs. Additionally, notes of graphite, granite, tobacco, and a subtle earthy minerality emerge. Despite its power, the wine remains remarkably fresh, with refined tannins, vibrant acidity, and an exceptionally long, complex finish.

Additional Information

The Porseleinberg Syrah is an iconic South African red wine from the Swartland region. Hailing from a steep, schist-rich mountain slope, this wine delivers an unparalleled combination of power, finesse, and minerality. Under the guidance of winemaker Callie Louw, only Syrah is cultivated, with a strong focus on terroir and minimal intervention in the cellar. The result is a wine with a distinct character and impressive aging potential.

The grapes are hand-harvested and mostly fermented as whole bunches. Fermentation occurs with natural yeasts. The wine then matures for about twelve months in large oak foudres, after which it rests for some time in concrete and bottle before release. This traditional approach emphasizes the purity of the fruit and the unique terroir.

Porseleinberg is located on a secluded mountain near Riebeek-Kasteel in Swartland. The vineyards are planted on schist-rich soils with very low yields. Winemaker Callie Louw consciously works with minimal technique and maximum attention to the vineyard. Porseleinberg is now considered one of South Africa's most sought-after producers, and its annual production is limited, making the wine globally coveted.

View all from the remarkable winery Boekenhoutskloof

Awards/Distinctions

Tim Atkin - 100 points (2026)
James Suckling - 95 points (2020)
Wine Spectator - 95 points (2019)
James Suckling - 96 points (2019)
Tim Atkin - 100 points (2018)
Platter's - ***** (2018)
Tim Atkin - 98 points (2017)

Fun Fact

The name Porseleinberg refers to the white shimmer of the schist rock on the mountain slopes. In the sunlight, the mountain appears to be made of porcelain, which gave the vineyard its name.