Syrah Oxalis 2023

Sometimes the most beautiful things emerge from the rarest circumstances. Our Oxalis Syrah is named after the endangered Oxalis duriuscula—a delicate bulbous geophyte that blooms only in our corner of the Overberg, between Bot River, Heidelberg and Bredasdorp. Like this precious flower, this wine can only exist in this precise place, at this exact moment.
The Story Behind the Wine
This is our maiden voyage with fruit we'd previously sold to others, three blocks planted in 2003 that we finally decided to keep for ourselves in 2023. These blocks, sitting 150 metres above sea level, had been quietly developing their character for two decades, and we finally realised their exceptional potential deserved to stay home.
As part of our Projects Range, Oxalis represents everything we love about experimentation and risk-taking. This isn't about playing it safe: it's about pushing boundaries and seeing what magic happens.

The Vineyards
Block A1 is pure shale and contributes 50% of this blend, bringing mineral backbone and structure. The remaining half comes from two sandstone blocks that add finesse and aromatic complexity. It's a perfect marriage of our two signature soil types, creating something that neither could achieve alone.

In the Glass
This powerful maiden vintage immediately announces itself with a dense bouquet of red and black fruit, violets, white pepper and dried sage. The palate is pure-fruited, succulent and intense, led by black cherries, muddled blueberries and cocoa nibs that speak to both power and elegance. The 50% whole bunch fermentation delivers a dry, sappy tannin structure that provides texture and length without overwhelming the fruit. This is poised, powerful and finessed, a wine that delivers early pleasure but carries the added promise of ageability.

How We Make It
Our minimal intervention philosophy guides every decision here. Fifty per cent whole bunch fermentation brings complexity and that distinctive sappy texture that makes this wine so compelling. Fourteen months in 500L French oak barrels (2nd and 3rd fill from Vicard and Sylvain cooperages) allows the fruit to shine whilst adding subtle integration. Even our bottling follows natural rhythms—completed on 30th October 2024 during a waning crescent moon.
Like the rare Oxalis duriuscula that blooms in white, rosy purple or combined hues with yellow tubes, this Syrah reveals different facets with each encounter—a wine that can only exist here, made this way, in this moment.
Perfect for: Wine lovers who appreciate rarity and craftsmanship—pair with wild game, aged beef, or strong cheeses that can match its power and complexity. This is a wine for special occasions and patient cellars.

Technical Details:
Alcohol: 14% vol | Residual Sugar: 2.1g/L | Total Acidity: 5.5g/L | pH: 3.6
Release Date: October 2025