Dewaldt Heyns Weathered Hands Shiraz 2018

Dewaldt Heyns Weathered Hands Shiraz is crafted from old vines rooted deep in ancient, weathered soils of the Swartland. These hardy vines produce naturally low yields, concentrating flavours of black cherry, plum, and blackberry. Hand-harvesting ensures only the best fruit, which is gently vinified and matured in French oak to develop rich layers of spice, smoked meat, and earthy notes alongside fine tannins. This wine embodies both strength and finesse, offering a true expression of terroir and the artistry of one of South Africa’s most respected winemakers. A Shiraz with depth, balance, and a long, memorable finish

Flanked on all sides by mountains in the Upper Breede River Valley, Tulbagh is utterly unique in its topography and natural beauty. It was this special character that attracted the first settlers here over three hundred years ago, and the same quality which led to the selection of Tulbagh as the site for Saronsberg winery. Recognising the distinctive terroir and potential of the valley, Saronsberg has joined the mission initially led by Rijk’s Cellar to prove the region’s capacity for producing wines of outstanding quality. Saronsberg consists of two farm portions formerly known as Waveren and Welgegund. The farm originally formed part of the beautiful and historic Twee Jonge Gezellen (TJG) until it was divided between the two Krone brothers in the '50s. Waveren and Welgegund, which lie on either side of TJG, were acquired in '02 and renamed after the commanding mountain whose slopes are home to a portion of their vines: Saronsberg. The two sites are distinctly different in terroir, with broad disparities in altitude, aspect, soil type, wind and rainfall patterns and temperature producing grapes with strongly contrasting characteristics. The immediate construction of a cellar was not part of the initial plan, but a wildfire two months after the acquisition of the farm meant the original strategy of gradually replanting vineyards had to be re-assessed. Although the farm’s best vineyards – most located on a section of Welgegund known locally as “Die Erf” – were saved, a more assertive planting program was initiated in '03. On 25 January 04, Saronsberg’s winemaking history officially began with the harvest of our first Sauvignon Blanc grapes – a momentous occasion that was celebrated 2 weeks later with a harvest party, then again the following year when Saronsberg reaped numerous awards for the '04 vintage.