# Allesverloren Shiraz (2020)

- **Producer:** Allesverloren Wine Estate
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Shiraz
- **Region:** Western Cape, South Africa
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 13.7%
- **Average price:** €13
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–16 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** black plum, blackberry, black cherry, black pepper, vanilla, cedar, cloves, leather, tobacco, earth

## About this wine

Allesverloren Shiraz is produced by Allesverloren Wine Estate, one of South Africa's oldest wine estates, located in the Swartland Wine of Origin district. The estate's name, 'all is lost,' reflects its historical resilience, with the Malan family having managed it since 1872. The wine is a 100% Shiraz, reflecting the character of the Swartland terroir, known for its warm climate and mineral-rich soils. The 2020 vintage benefited from a warm, dry ripening season, contributing to the wine's deep color and fruit expression. Allesverloren is recognized for its tradition of producing robust red wines with significant aging potential.

## Interesting facts

- Estate name means 'all is lost' after a 1704 fire.
- Malan family has owned the estate since 1872.
- Oldest wine estate in the Swartland Wine of Origin district.
- Vineyards are situated on the southeastern slopes of Kasteelberg.

## Food pairing

The wine's full body and firm tannins are well-suited to complement the richness and protein in red meat dishes, softening the tannins and enhancing the savory flavors. Its fruit-driven character can also stand up to and balance richer sauces.

## Wine making process

Allesverloren Shiraz is made from 100% Shiraz grapes, hand-harvested from trellised vineyards on the south-eastern slopes of Kasteelberg. The grapes are fermented on their skins in open tanks at 25°C for five to seven days, followed by four months on the lees. Each vineyard block is vinified separately. The wine is then aged for 15 months in a mix of new, second, and third-fill French oak barrels, and some new American oak barrels. Viticultural practices focus on canopy management and yield control to ensure optimal fruit development.