Dalkeith
Dalkeith is a joint wine project by Graham Weerts and Adi Badenhorst, two prominent figures in the South African wine industry. The initiative grew out of their decades-long friendship and shared passion for creating wines that reflect the uniqueness of specific terroirs.
The grapes for Dalkeith are carefully selected from three distinctive vineyards: Kalmoesfontein and Jakkalsfontein in the Swartland, both owned by Adi Badenhorst, and Koplandsteen in Bottelary, Stellenbosch, managed by the Du Bois family. These sites, with vines averaging 50 years old, produce exceptional Chenin Blanc and Syrah that capture the essence of their growing environment.
In the cellar, Dalkeith takes a minimalist approach, focusing on preserving the purity of the fruit. The wines are aged in a combination of ceramics, amphoras and old, neutral wooden barrels, resulting in wines that are honest and uncomplicated, yet offer intriguing complexity.
Graham Weerts, known for his work at Capensis and other international wine projects, brings his extensive experience to Dalkeith. Adi Badenhorst, a pioneer in the Swartland region, is known for his traditional winemaking techniques and deep respect for the land. Together, they strive to produce wines that not only highlight the quality of South African wines, but also celebrate the stories and people behind the vineyards.
Dalkeith embodies the synergy between friendship, craftsmanship and a deep-rooted connection to the South African terroir, offering wine lovers worldwide an authentic and immersive experience.
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Red wineDalkeith Jakkalsfontein Syrah
Read moreThe Dalkeith Jakkalsfontein Syrah 2023 is a powerful and elegant expression of the Swartland region, carefully created at the renowned Jakkalsfontein vineyard. This unique site, owned by Adi Badenhorst, combines old bush vines with granite-rich soils, resulting in grapes of exceptional intensity and finesse. The Swartland's warm climate, combined with cool nights, contributes to slow ripening, giving the Syrah a perfect balance between ripeness and freshness.
The 2023-vintage shows a deep ruby colour in the glass and reveals a complex aroma of black cherry, blackberry, white pepper and violets, complemented by subtle notes of smoked meat and spices. On the palette, the wine offers a silky texture, powerful structure and lively acidity, which together lead to a long, layered finish.
The Dalkeith Jakkalsfontein Syrah is fermented with indigenous yeasts and aged in a combination of large, neutral oak barrels and concrete tanks. This approach preserves the purity of the fruit and highlights the character of the terroir, while adding a subtle spicy complexity.
This Syrah is a perfect companion to game preparations. With its balance of power and elegance, the Dalkeith Jakkalsfontein Syrah 2023 offers an authentic Swartland experience and a tribute to Dalkeith's dedication to creating wines that celebrate their origins.
