Val de Vie Western Cape Shiraz 2008 87 Points

Val de Vie Western Cape Shiraz 2008 87 Points


Medium clear, bright, ruby red with purple rim, high concentration and high viscosity, no evidence of gas or sediment

Clean with high intensity note of ripe blackberries, blueberries, dark red forest fruit such as overripe cassis, sappy, excellent purity with some gamey note, could there be a soupcon of Mourvedre in the blend? Earthy dark soil, very oaky with layers of roasted coffe beans, mocha, black forest gateau, kirsch spirit, wears off slightly with aeration.


Dry with medium plus acidity (possible acidified) and not fully integrated, high alcohol, not for faint hearted, medium plus tannin, new flavors of strawberry jams, hazelnut spread, showy and charry muscular style, medium plus complexity medium length, fine aftertaste.


If served under South African climatic condition, poured at 14 degrees Celsius, will paired with a pink pepper lamb loin served medium rare cooked over open flame, served with roasted roots vegetables such as carrot, beetroot and parsnips, coarse sea salt and extra virgin South African olive oil.

Now until 2019 if cellared under optimum condition

This Shiraz could have score higher if it was not marred by over oaking, acidification and high alcohol.