Craig's most complete expression of Syrah to date. Inspired by Côte-Rôtie and built around whole-bunch fermentation, it combines perfume, spice and savoury complexity with impressive balance and refinement.

Hand harvested in middle February. The grapes were cooled down overnight to 6 degres and processed the following day. The grapes were crushed into open 1500L fermenters and gently punched down 3 or 4 times over the course of 2 weeks.  Grapes undergo 100% whole-bunch fermentation using wild, native yeasts with no additions. When the wine has sufficient tannin it is pressed into a stainless steel tank to finish its fermentation. It is then transferred to 500L old barrels where full malolactic takes place. It then ages for 17 months on its fine lees.

We are extremely happy with the 2025 Dark Side and have focused specifically on increasing intensity and flavour by lowering the pH and increasing tannin without comprimising drinkability.

Tasting Notes: Intensely fragrant with wild fynbos, red berries, rose petals, and pronounced cracked black pepper. Light-to-medium bodied with excellent fruit purity. It features crunchy red and dark berry notes, zesty natural acidity, and fine, chalky, lightly grippy tannins.

Food Pairing: Best enjoyed slightly chilled. It pairs beautifully with charcuterie, grilled lamb chops, charcuterie, or herb-roasted root vegetables

‘From a Paardeberg vineyard planted in 2001. 100% whole-bunch fermented. The aromatics are complex and nuanced, showing cured meat, white pepper, violets, red berries and fynbos. The palate delivers pure fruit with fresh acidity and ultra-fine, powdery tannins. Light-bodied yet detailed and long, offering excellent refreshment without ever tipping into simplicity. Alc: 12.5%. CE’s rating: 95  “Distinctive”

ANALYSIS: ALC 12.5% | TA 5.5g/L | pH 3.57 | RS 0.9g/L