# Tamboerskloof Syrah (2022)

- **Producer:** Kleinood
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Syrah, Mourvèdre, Viognier
- **Region:** Western Cape, South Africa
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.5%
- **Average price:** €23
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 18–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** black plum, violet, black cherry, black pepper, vanilla, cedar, cloves, leather, earth

## About this wine

The Tamboerskloof Syrah Kleinood is a red wine from Stellenbosch, South Africa, produced by the boutique winery Kleinood. Founded by Gerard and Libby de Villiers, the estate emphasizes artisanal winemaking and meticulous vineyard management. The wine's name, Tamboerskloof, is derived from a Cape Town suburb. The vineyards are situated in the Helderberg area, benefiting from diverse microclimates. The wine is distinguished by its focus on Syrah, with small additions of Mourvèdre and Viognier, and its unique, hand-crafted labels.

## Interesting facts

- Kleinood means 'something small and precious' in Afrikaans.
- Labels are hand-printed on handmade paper.
- Vineyards are managed in small, distinct blocks.
- The wine is named after a Cape Town suburb.

## Food pairing

The wine's medium-plus body and fine-grained tannins are well-suited to complement the richness of red meats and game. The subtle fruit notes can echo the flavors in sauces and reductions, while the wine's structure can stand up to hearty winter dishes.

## Wine making process

The winemaking process begins with hand-picked grapes that undergo three stages of sorting before destemming and crushing. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks at approximately 25°C for 11 to 16 days. Following fermentation, the wine is aged for about 18 months in a mix of 300L and 500L French oak barrels, with a portion of new oak used. Each vineyard block is managed, harvested, fermented, and matured separately to highlight its specific terroir.