Gabriëlskloof Syrah on Shale 2021

Located in the emerging Overberg region, Gabriëlskloof was founded by Bernhard Heyns in 2001 at a time when the land was just wheat fields and sheep. However, he saw huge potential in the region, buying a site which has grown to encompass over 60 hectares of vines. Innovative and precise winemaking is fundamental to the Gabriëlskloof philosophy, which is further reinforced by Bernhard’s son-in-law, Peter-Allan Finlayson of Crystallum.

Situated on undulating hills in Bot River (Botrivier), Gabriëlskloof’s vineyards are exposed to prevailing southerly winds from the Atlantic Ocean and Walker Bay. The vineyards are farmed sustainably. 

The fruit for the Syrah on Shale comes from a single Bokkeveld shale site on the Gabriëlskloof property. A high clay component allows for excellent water retention and a resultant riper fruit profile in the wine. Another factor that has a significant influence on our terroir is wind, and this vineyard site faces the full brunt of the south-easterly wind, providing just enough stress for the vines to show their true colours.