Piekenierskloof Grenache Noir 2023

The Piekenierskloof Grenache Noir 2023 is a vibrant and refined South African wine that immediately stands out for its elegant, almost weightless character. The grapes come from the high-lying Piekenierskloof region, where old bush vines — some several decades old — produce small, concentrated berries full of personality. The climate there is warm, yet tempered by altitude, giving this Grenache a beautiful balance of ripe fruit and bright, energetic structure.

In the glass, the wine shows a light, translucent ruby hue that already hints at its fresh, lifted style. The aroma is instantly inviting: fresh red fruits like strawberry, raspberry, and cherry take the lead, joined by gentle floral notes and a subtle touch of spice. It’s a bouquet that feels both pure and layered, as if you can sense the grape, the soil, and the mountain air all at once.

On the palate, the liveliness stands out first. The wine has a clean, refreshing acidity that makes the fruit shine and keeps the whole profile light and elegant. The tannins are soft and silky, allowing the wine to glide effortlessly while still holding onto a nice sense of tension. This makes it wonderfully drinkable but far from simple: there are intriguing hints of spice, a touch of earthiness, and delicate herbal undertones that add depth.

The texture is refined and open, never heavy or dense. Each sip feels balanced — fruity, fresh, gently structured, and subtly complex. As the wine opens in the glass, the aromas continue to evolve, revealing even more nuance in the fruit and a warm, sun-kissed character that integrates beautifully without dominating.

The finish is long and graceful, echoing red fruit and fine, subtle spice. Altogether, the wine feels modern and pure yet grounded in tradition: a Grenache that expresses charm in a natural, unforced way. It’s an expressive, character-driven wine that showcases exactly what the unique Piekenierskloof terroir can deliver in a strong vintage.