Kleine Zalze has solidified its reputation as one of the Cape’s most versatile and award-winning wineries, adding another prestigious accolade to its collection. The Stellenbosch estate’s Family Reserve Syrah 2020 has been named one of the Top 12 Shiraz/Syrah wines in South Africa in the recent Shiraz/Syrah Challenge. This achievement builds on a series of accolades earned over the past year, recognizing the estate’s excellence across a wide range of varietals, including Chenin Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc, and Cap Classique.
Winemaker RJ Botha credits these successes to the winery’s access to diverse terroirs that enhance the character of each varietal, coupled with the team’s focused approach to crafting wines with both distinction and consumer appeal.
“The Family Reserve Syrah 2020, following in the footsteps of last year’s Top 12-winning 2019 vintage, is crafted with the goal of delivering optimal varietal expression and top-tier quality while maintaining approachability for our consumers,” says Botha. “While awards are gratifying, our primary focus remains on creating wines that resonate with our customers and inspire loyalty.”
The grapes for the Family Reserve Syrah 2020 were sourced from vineyards in Stellenbosch’s Helderberg region and the cool-climate Faure area near False Bay. The 2020 growing season saw a warm, dry spring in 2019, leading to vigorous vine growth, followed by timely rains that supported even flowering and berry set. Canopy management was critical in ensuring consistent ripening, and the earlier-than-usual harvest delivered grapes in excellent condition with concentrated flavours.
In the cellar, the winemaking team embraced a refined approach, reflected in the transition from labelling the wine as Shiraz to Syrah. Whole-bunch fermentation, including the use of ripe stems, and a shift away from heavily toasted new oak played a key role in achieving the wine’s elegant structure. The Syrah was matured for 22 months in a mix of 65% new French oak and 35% older barrels.
“To win a Top 12 Shiraz/Syrah award two years in a row is not just a testament to the quality of our Syrah in individual vintages, but also to the consistency of excellence in crafting this wine from Stellenbosch terroir,” says Botha. “With 136 entries from some of South Africa’s finest producers, being ranked among the best is a tremendous honour and a proud moment for the Kleine Zalze brand.”
